Alpine, the Renault-owned Formula 1 team, has announced a deal to use Mercedes engines starting from the 2026 season, following the decision to end Renault's own engine program by 2025. The agreement, which extends through at least 2030, also includes Mercedes-supplied gearboxes, though Alpine is exploring the possibility of designing these in-house from 2027. This change aims to boost Alpine's competitiveness after years of underperforming with their own engines, which have struggled to match the rivals' power units.
The decision marks a shift in Alpine’s strategy after years of not meeting their F1 ambitions. When Renault rejoined Formula 1 as a team owner in 2016, it aimed to compete for world titles within five years. However, that target was revised when the team was rebranded as Alpine in 2021, with a new goal set for achieving title contention in 100 races. Despite these ambitions, the team has not made the expected progress, leading to significant changes within Alpine’s management.
In 2023, Alpine’s CEO Laurent Rossi was dismissed, and major restructuring efforts have since been undertaken. Former Renault F1 team boss Flavio Briatore was appointed executive advisor to help reshape the team, including the hiring of Oliver Oakes as the new team principal. As part of this restructuring, Alpine’s workforce in Enstone, Oxfordshire, was reduced by 300 employees, down from 1,150 to 850, signaling a shift towards optimizing resources for future success.
Despite a slow start to the season, Alpine has made notable progress in recent races. A strategic move during the wet Sao Paulo Grand Prix on November 3 saw Alpine drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly secure second and third places, respectively, boosting the team’s standing in the Constructors' Championship from ninth to sixth. This surge could potentially add an estimated $30 million in prize money if they maintain their position for the rest of the season.
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