JUST IN :F1 team release MAJOR update over 2026 car… Read more
F1 team release MAJOR update over 2026 car
The Alpine Formula 1 team has announced significant progress regarding their preparations for the 2026 season. Based in Enstone, the team is gearing up for a massive shift in regulations that will require all teams across the grid to adapt to new technical standards. As Alpine continues to focus on its long-term future, the 2026 car has become a central priority for the team.
The 2024 season was a challenging one for Alpine, with the squad struggling to make substantial progress. Their driver lineup, consisting of Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon, was unable to extract consistent results, leaving the team frustrated with its performance. Despite this, Alpine still secured a P6 finish in the Constructors’ Championship, which resulted in a $50 million bonus. However, the team decided to make a bold move by parting ways with Ocon for the 2025 season, opting to replace him early during the final race weekend of 2024.
In Abu Dhabi, Gasly was joined by Jack Doohan, a rookie driver who took Ocon’s place. It is still unclear who will be Gasly’s teammate for the upcoming 2026 season, as Alpine works to finalize their driver lineup under the new regulations.
A major shift in the team’s technical strategy was also confirmed last year. Alpine will transition into a customer team for the 2026 season, marking a departure from their long-standing practice of using their own engines. Instead, Alpine will be powered by Mercedes engines, a significant move after they closed down the F1 engine division at their Viry-Chatillon facility.
With these changes underway, Alpine has also provided an update on their progress with the 2026 car. The team recently released a teaser of the A526, their new machine designed for the 2026 regulations. The car will feature a Mercedes power unit, aligning with Alpine’s new partnership. Alpine’s social media announcement confirmed that work on the new car is well underway, with wind tunnel testing officially beginning in accordance with FIA regulations. The team’s social media post read: “We’ve been busy in the wind tunnel alright. Last week, in accordance with FIA regulations, official Wind Tunnel testing of the 2026 BWT Alpine Formula One Team car (A526) began.”
This marks a crucial phase in Alpine’s long-term vision, as they focus on developing a car capable of competing at the highest level under the new rules. The 2026 regulations are set to bring about significant changes in the sport, and Alpine is eager to ensure they are fully prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. As the team moves into this next chapter, the A526 will be a key element in their quest to return to the front of the grid.
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