Pierre Gasly has his sights set on becoming a championship contender in 2026. As engine regulations undergo a major overhaul, the French driver believes Alpine is poised to challenge for the title. Gasly, who joined Alpine Racing in 2023 after leaving AlphaTauri, has shown determination to lead Alpine’s charge to the forefront.
Despite a difficult start this year with only six points in five races, Gasly is focused on a promising turnaround come 2026. His belief in Alpine’s potential is rooted in strategic changes, notably as the team plans to stop producing its own power units. Instead, Alpine will partner with Mercedes, using their engines, gearboxes, and rear suspensions, fueling Gasly’s optimism for the future.
Supporting this optimistic outlook, Flavio Bratiore, Alpine’s executive advisor, disclosed that the decision to transition to Mercedes engines stemmed from the unrewarding experience of manufacturing power units in-house. This shift represents a significant change for the team, expected to go into effect from the 2026 season, potentially elevating Alpine’s competitiveness.
Gasly’s potential was evident during the 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where he secured a P9 start in qualifying. However, an unfortunate crash involving Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda on the opening lap brought out a safety car, both drivers losing out on crucial points. Interestingly, the FIA stewards did not investigate the incident, labeling it a racing incident.
Meanwhile, the race saw Oscar Piastri claiming victory, and Max Verstappen finishing second despite a five-second penalty. Gasly’s encounter illustrates the unpredictability of racing, intensifying his resolve for future success with the revamped Alpine-Mercedes partnership.
The 2026 season stands as a pivotal moment for Pierre Gasly and Alpine, with the team’s reliance on renowned Mercedes technology positioning them for a potential breakthrough. As fans and experts alike speculate on Gasly’s prospects, the anticipation for Alpine’s performance in the upcoming seasons is palpable, promising an intriguing shift in the landscape of Formula 1 racing.
