Pierre Gasly has expressed confidence regarding Alpine’s new Mercedes power unit for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The French driver stated that the engine is ‘probably the best’ and anticipates significant benefits for the team. This assessment comes as Alpine navigates its first season with Mercedes power.
Alpine confirmed a multi-year agreement with Mercedes-Benz for power unit and gearbox supply, effective from the 2026 season until at least 2030. This strategic shift was announced in November 2024.
The decision followed Renault’s confirmation in September 2024 to cease developing and building F1 engines at its Viry-Chatillon facility by the end of 2025. Renault’s power units were identified as a limiting factor for the team’s performance.
The move to Mercedes power units was driven by the belief that Mercedes offered the optimal solution under the new 2026 regulations. These regulations introduce substantial changes to power unit architecture.
The 2026 rules mandate a 50/50 split between internal combustion engine and electronic power, a significant change from the previous 80/20 ratio. The MGU-H component has also been removed from the power unit design.
Gasly conveyed his excitement for the new chapter with Mercedes, citing their championship record. He indicated that information suggests the Mercedes engine is currently ‘in a great place.’
The driver holds high expectations for Alpine in the upcoming year. He noted that tactical sacrifices were made during the 2025 season to ensure a strong start in 2026.
Despite the optimism surrounding the engine, Gasly has challenged Alpine to develop a robust chassis for 2026. He acknowledged that the team’s chassis development requires further work.
The Mercedes engine, while highly anticipated, is currently under scrutiny. Rival manufacturers have raised concerns regarding a controversial solution involving thermal expansion to increase compression ratio.
Mercedes maintains that its engine complies with regulations during static tests. This situation highlights the complexities of being a customer team, as Alpine’s fate is partially tied to an outsourced component.
Alpine is currently competing in the 2026 season with the A526 car, which is its first to utilise a Mercedes power unit. The team sits sixth in the Constructors’ Championship after 16 races, with 68 points.
Recent personnel changes at Alpine include the return of Flavio Briatore as executive advisor and Steve Nielsen as Managing Director. Mike Elliott, former Mercedes chief technical officer, also joined Alpine in September 2026.
