Alpine’s Unlikely Turnaround: From Backmarker to Podium Finishers
If you had told any Formula 1 fan at the start of 2024 that by the end of the season, Alpine would have a double podium and finish sixth in the constructors’ championship, you would have likely been met with bewildered stares. Alpine, once known as Renault, had a tepid start to the season, struggling to score points and often finding itself at the back of the grid. However, a dramatic shift in fortunes began to unfold at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly secured a second and third place finish, marking the first double podium for the team under the Alpine name.
A Rocky Start and a Persuasive Turnaround
At the beginning of the 2024 season, Alpine was consistently lagging behind, failing to score a single point until the sixth round in Miami, where Ocon managed a 10th-place finish. By the summer break, the team had accumulated only 11 points, with Ocon contributing five and Gasly six. The root of the problem, according to Alpine’s executive technical director David Sanchez, lay in the car’s weight and aerodynamic issues. The chassis was too heavy, and the aerodynamic performance was subpar. However, the team was not deterred and worked tirelessly to address these problems. Gradually, improvements were made, culminating in the stunning result in Brazil, where Alpine secured 35 points. This momentum continued in the final races of the season, with the team adding another 16 points to solidify its sixth place in the constructors’ championship, ahead of rivals like Haas.
Driver Lineup Shake-up for 2025
As the 2024 season came to a close, Alpine made significant changes to its driver lineup for 2025. Esteban Ocon, who had been a crucial part of the team’s rise, moved to Haas, making way for Jack Doohan, who had impressed in his F1 debut at the Abu Dhabi GP, qualifying 17th and finishing 15th. Doohan, alongside the experienced Pierre Gasly, will lead Alpine into the new season. The team has also bolstered its reserve driver lineup with the recruitment of Paul Aron, Ryo Hirakawa, and Franco Colapinto, who showed promise during his stint with Williams in the latter half of 2024. This strengthened squad on the sidelines indicates Alpine’s determination to build on its recent successes.
A Strategic Engine Switch for 2026
In a significant move, Alpine will switch from Renault power units to Mercedes engines in 2026. This decision comes as Renault has shut down its own F1 engine program. The switch is not without precedent; Red Bull and McLaren have both benefited from changing engine suppliers in recent years. Red Bull adopted Honda power units in 2019 and has since dominated the sport, winning the constructors’ title in 2022 and 2023. McLaren, after ending disappointing partnerships with Honda and Renault, found success with Mercedes, securing the constructors’ championship in 2024. While changing engine providers does not guarantee championships, the 2026 regulation changes are expected to favor teams with Mercedes engines, according to statements from the German manufacturer. Alpine is not alone in this transition, with Aston Martin, Red Bull, and Sauber also making engine changes. Aston Martin will use Honda engines, Red Bull will switch to Ford and Red Bull Powertrains, and Sauber will transform into the Audi F1 Team with its own power unit.
New Leadership and Vision
Alpine has had a tumultuous managerial history, with three different team principals since the start of 2023. Otmar Szafnauer and Bruno Famin both departed the team after short stints, leading to the appointment of Oliver Oakes as the new team principal. Oakes, who is confident in his leadership, told Autosport, "I took this job because I believed in the team, the people, and I felt I could bring something new." His approach is centered on empowering the team and removing obstacles so that everyone can focus on their tasks. Famed F1 executive Flavio Briatore also returned to Alpine as an executive advisor, bringing his influential presence to the team. Briatore praised Oakes, stating, "Ollie is enthusiastic, young, and ambitious—exactly what we need." With a clear vision and strong leadership, Alpine aims to capitalize on the new partnership with Mercedes and the upcoming regulation changes.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As Alpine prepares for the 2026 season, the team is making strategic moves to position itself for success. The switch to Mercedes engines, combined with a strong driver lineup and robust reserve team, signals a commitment to climbing the grid. While the 2024 season saw a dramatic improvement, particularly with the double podium in Brazil, Alpine must maintain this momentum to achieve its long-term goals. The 2026 regulatory changes are expected to be a game-changer, and with new leadership and a clear strategic direction, Alpine is poised to make a significant impact in the years to come. Whether the Enstone squad can return to its former glory and challenge for top positions remains to be seen, but the foundation has been laid for a promising future.
