Alpine is looking to turn its fortunes around with a fresh engine supply deal from Mercedes starting in 2026, which could bring more than just power unit improvements. After years of internal instability and poor engine performance, the French squad is aiming to end its reliance on Renault’s underperforming powertrains. Since the ousting of CEO Laurent Rossi and the controversial return of Flavio Briatore, Alpine has been scrambling for a reset—both in management and on track. With results lacking and morale low, this engine partnership may offer a clean slate.
The move to Mercedes engines is not just strategic but also symbolic. Ending Renault’s F1 engine operations concludes a turbulent chapter marked by mixed results, even during their Red Bull days. The French manufacturer’s transition from V8 to V6 hybrids only worsened performance, and reliability issues became a hallmark. This decline pushed Red Bull to sever ties and move to Honda, a decision that left Renault unable to rise beyond fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship in the years that followed. Alpine is now undergoing structural cuts to streamline operations and focus on efficiency ahead of the 2026 regulation overhaul.
One intriguing twist to the Mercedes deal is the potential inclusion of young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli. As Mercedes grapples with the prospect of luring Max Verstappen from Red Bull, Antonelli’s place in their driver lineup becomes uncertain. With George Russell likely staying, Antonelli could be squeezed out, leaving Alpine as a potential destination. Given his rapid rise and early podium finish in his rookie season, Antonelli would be a major asset for Alpine, especially alongside the solid yet underrated Pierre Gasly.
Alpine’s current campaign has been dire—they’re languishing at the bottom of the standings in 2025. While a mid-season driver switch has yet to produce results, bringing in Antonelli could inject the spark they desperately need. Toto Wolff would likely want to ensure Antonelli remains on the F1 grid, even if it means a loan move to Alpine. With Mercedes set to have a potentially dominant engine under the 2026 rules, Antonelli’s presence could help Alpine maximize this new technical foundation and break out of its slump.
Ultimately, Alpine’s new engine deal with Mercedes is about more than hardware—it could reshape their future on multiple levels. If Antonelli joins, the combination of a top-tier power unit, a gifted young driver, and the renewed focus within the team might finally end their struggles. With regulatory changes arriving in 2026, Alpine is positioning itself to climb back up the grid—and Antonelli could be the unexpected key to that comeback.
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