Alpine F1 Team Aims High for 2026 Season
Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive advisor and a controversial figure in Formula 1, asserts there are “no excuses” for the team not to aim for race victories and championships by 2026. After a lackluster start to the 2025 season, where Alpine has managed only seven points, Briatore has intensified his involvement, particularly following the exit of team principal Oliver Oakes.
Briatore’s ambition is clear: “In 2026, we can win races, I guarantee it, and in 2027, we want to be title contenders,” he stated in an interview with Le Monde. He emphasized that the upcoming regulatory changes present a critical opportunity: “We must be competitive. We owe it to Renault and to Alpine.”
A significant factor in Alpine’s strategy is the switch from Renault to Mercedes power units in 2026, a decision Briatore acknowledges was fraught with challenges due to historical disadvantages with Renault’s powertrain performance. “Choosing to switch to Mercedes was a very difficult decision, but to win, you need the same tools as others,” he explained.
Briatore previously led the team to three constructors’ championships and has returned to a role where he’s deeply engaged despite being unable to officially assume the role of team principal. Since Oakes’ departure, he has taken on extensive responsibilities across all departments: “I’m now 100% committed and surrounded by a very strong team,” he noted, dismissing any speculation of prior discord with Oakes.
Looking ahead, Briatore remains resolute that Alpine must capitalize on new regulations to regain its competitive edge. “The teams that interpret them best will have the edge,” he added, signaling a determined push for a transformative 2026 season.
