Flavio Briatore has confirmed that he was the driving force behind Alpine’s decision to replace their Renault works engine with Mercedes power for the 2026 Formula 1 season. This announcement came despite his previous denials last year about his involvement in the switch.
During the launch of Alpine’s A526 car in Barcelona, Briatore spoke candidly to Sky Italia about his influence in shaping the team’s engine direction.
How much of my influence was involved in the decision to switch from Renault to Mercedes engines? One hundred percent,
Briatore stated.
He added that Luca de Meo, Alpine’s CEO, fully supported his perspective, recognizing the necessity of having an engine capable of competing with top teams.
I would never have returned to Formula 1 if I hadn’t had the opportunity to have an engine on par with the top teams,
Briatore affirmed.
Alpine’s Preparation and Early Testing with New Powertrain
Alpine plans to start testing their 2026 car immediately during the Barcelona group test phase, following an intensive winter development program. This changes comes after a difficult 2025 campaign, and the team has also incorporated Mercedes gearboxes as part of the new partnership.
Driver Pierre Gasly emphasized the importance of early running under the new technical regulations, which drastically alter both engine and chassis performance.
It’s a good sign, that’s clear,
Gasly told AS.
At this point, every lap with these cars is very valuable because the engine and chassis are so different. We’re starting from scratch, and there’s a lot to learn – for us as drivers.
Gasly added that Alpine will need to establish new performance benchmarks given the significant changes in car design and power units.
We’ll have to reset our benchmarks,
he said,
and it’s good to be able to start running earlier.
Gasly’s View on Alpine’s Future Potential
Reflecting on the upcoming season, Gasly hinted that Alpine’s performance goals have shifted upwards with the new engine and technical setup, suggesting a higher potential ceiling for 2026 compared to previous years.
It depends on the cars that are ready in Australia,
Gasly remarked with a smile when asked if simply making it through Q1 would remain the team’s primary goal.
