F1 team release MAJOR update over 2026 car to be.....

F1 team release MAJOR update over 2026 car to be……read more

The Alpine Formula 1 team has provided an exciting update regarding their preparations for the 2026 season, which marks a significant shift in the sport’s technical regulations. The Enstone-based squad, which has already begun working on its new car, is gearing up for a monumental change that will affect all teams across the grid. In an official statement, Alpine teased a glimpse of their upcoming 2026 machinery, revealing that work is already underway.

Alpine’s 2024 season was a challenging one, with the team struggling to extract consistent performance from their driver duo, Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon. Despite their potential, the pair found themselves unable to work together effectively, highlighted by a dramatic incident at the Monaco Grand Prix. Ocon’s aggressive move on Gasly resulted in a collision, leading to a double retirement for the team and leaving Gasly with the daunting task of recovering points from a difficult position.

However, as the season progressed, Alpine showed signs of recovery. The team ended the year on a high note with a sensational double podium finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix, their best result of the 2024 season. This achievement contributed to a $50 million windfall, thanks to their sixth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship.

In the face of these challenges, team principal Oliver Oakes and Alpine’s F1 advisor Flavio Briatore made the decision to part ways with Ocon for 2025. The team has already taken steps towards the future by replacing Ocon with rookie Jack Doohan, who joined Gasly at the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi. However, it remains uncertain who will partner Gasly for the 2026 season, as Alpine has not yet confirmed their full driver lineup for the new regulations.

One of the most significant changes for Alpine in the coming seasons is their switch to a customer engine deal. The team will be moving away from their traditional Renault engines and instead will use Mercedes power units. This decision came after the closure of their F1 engine division in Viry-Chatillon, signaling a new era for the team.

Alpine’s 2026 car, which will carry the designation A526, has already entered its crucial development phase. The team recently posted on social media that they began official wind tunnel testing of the A526, in accordance with FIA regulations. The wind tunnel tests, which started last week, represent a key milestone in the team’s preparations for the upcoming technical overhaul in 2026.

With work underway on both their new car and engine package, Alpine is determined to be ready for the dramatic changes in the Formula 1 landscape in 2026. As the countdown continues, the team is working tirelessly to ensure that their new machine is up to the task of competing at the highest level in F1.