Alpine has been one of the most inconsistent teams on the F1 grid. In the nine races until the Canada GP, the team has only scored 5 points. As a result, the team is currently at P7 in the constructors cup, only above Williams and Sauber.
Moreover, the team’s F1 project seems to have hit the brake, as it lacks pace. To further aggravate its pain, both the drivers, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, have failed to work in tandem. The team plans to become an F1 customer team ahead of the 2026 regulations revamp.
Alpine Knocking Doors Of Mercedes After Red Bull’s Denial
The Alpine team management revealed they are no longer willing to use its own power units, which Renault manufactured. Thus, the team discussed a potential partnership for 2026 with Red Bull. Notably, the Austrian outfit will manufacture the Red Bull Powertrains with Ford. However, the energy drink-based outfit will supply the engines to VCRB and RBR. Thus, it would be logistically challenging to add a third customer. As a result, they reportedly denied Alpine’s offer. However, the team is willing to evaluate its F1 project and hasn’t left any stones unturned. Moreover, the team doesn’t want to rely on the current engine, as the 2026 turbo hybrid era in 2026 would be a complete turnaround. Hence, the team is adamant about stopping work on future powertrain plans.
While RBR turned down the offer, sources revealed that Alpine principal Bruno Famin has been contemplating other rivals to explore other options. The next option is Mercedes, as Aston Martin’s switch to Honda leaves a space for a third customer. The Silver Arrows will be delivering power units to McLaren and Williams. Moreover, the team is one of the finest manufacturers of high-end engines. Thus, Alpine’s hope hinges on the German Marque for the 2026 season. However, these are all speculations for now, as the Alpine team has refrained from publicly discussing this topic.
Gasly Wants The Team To Explore Power Unit Options
Pierre Gasly emphasized the importance of considering all available options to enhance team performance. Further, he highlighted that the primary goal is to be competitive and to fight at the front of the grid. Gasly pointed out that recent performances have shown it is possible to be competitive without running a team’s own engine, suggesting that this possibility remains a consideration. He expressed confidence in the top management’s ability to make the right decision for the team, ensuring that all options are thoroughly evaluated.
Further, Gasly explained the advantages of being a works team, noting that it allows for setting their limits without external constraints. Moreover, he contrasted this with the situation when working with another party, where parity must be maintained among different parties, especially concerning the engine. This flexibility, he suggested, is a significant benefit of being a works team.