Alpine's Formula 1 Comeback: 6 Reasons for Their Rise in 2026

The Enstone-based team has transformed itself into a formidable force in the 2026 season.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:52pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting an Alpine Formula 1 car in motion, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant blue, red, and yellow colors, conveying the team's technical prowess and innovative spirit.Alpine's innovative approach and technical advancements have propelled the team to the forefront of the midfield battle in the 2026 Formula One season.Today in Miami

Alpine's meteoric rise in the 2026 Formula One season has been nothing short of remarkable. After a challenging 2025 campaign, the Enstone-based team has transformed itself into a formidable force, currently occupying the fifth spot in the Teams' Championship. This turnaround is a testament to their strategic decisions, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Why it matters

Alpine's success in the 2026 season is a significant achievement, as the team has managed to overcome a difficult 2025 campaign and establish itself as a strong contender in the midfield battle. This turnaround highlights the team's ability to adapt, innovate, and execute a long-term strategy, which could have broader implications for the Formula One landscape.

The details

Alpine's rise can be attributed to several key factors, including their early focus on 2026 development, the partnership with Mercedes as their power unit supplier, more stability throughout the team, strong performances from both drivers, consistent performance across different tracks, and their relentless pursuit of improvement.

  • Alpine made the decision to prioritize 2026 development over the 2025 season.
  • Flavio Briatore returned to the team as Executive Advisor in June 2024.
  • Steve Nielsen joined as Managing Director in September 2025.
  • Alpine maintained the same driver line-up of Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto for the 2026 season.
  • The team's strong performances were evident throughout the first three rounds of the 2026 season, including the Sprint round in China.

The players

Flavio Briatore

The Executive Advisor of the Alpine Formula 1 team, who has played a key role in the team's turnaround.

Steve Nielsen

The Managing Director of the Alpine Formula 1 team, who has helped provide more stability to the organization.

Pierre Gasly

One of Alpine's drivers, who has demonstrated resilience and skill in challenging scenarios, contributing to the team's success.

Franco Colapinto

The other Alpine driver, who has shown adaptability and consistency, helping the team score points consistently.

Mercedes

The power unit supplier for Alpine, whose expertise and performance have provided a significant boost to the team's competitiveness.

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What they’re saying

“We must keep working hard and stay motivated. There's still more performance to find in this car.”

— Pierre Gasly, Alpine Driver

“The partnership with Mercedes has been a game-changer for us. Their expertise and performance have given us a significant boost.”

— Steve Nielsen, Alpine Managing Director

“I'm confident that we can continue to improve and challenge for even higher positions in the championship.”

— Flavio Briatore, Alpine Executive Advisor

What’s next

The team will use the short break before Round 4 in Miami to add more performance to the car and continue to give equal opportunity to both drivers to perform and score points.

The takeaway

Alpine's remarkable turnaround in the 2026 Formula One season highlights the team's ability to adapt, innovate, and execute a long-term strategy. Their success is a testament to their strategic decisions, technical prowess, and the strong performances of their drivers, which could have broader implications for the Formula One landscape.