Alpine

The BWT Alpine F1 Team, headquartered in Enstone, France, carries a lineage stretching back to 1986, though its current identity as Alpine emerged in 2021 as a rebrand of the Renault F1 Team. This storied outfit has seen various guises, most notably as Benetton Formula and then as the works Renault team, securing two Constructor titles during its tenure.

History

The team's journey began with Toleman in 1981, evolving into Benetton Formula in 1986. Under this banner, the team achieved significant success, including two Constructor titles in 1995 and 2005. Renault acquired the team in 2000, rebranding it to Renault F1 Team and continuing a legacy of innovation and competitive spirit. After a period as Lotus F1 Team, Renault re-entered as a full works constructor in 2016, aiming to recapture past glories. In 2021, the team was rebranded again to Alpine, Renault's performance sub-brand, signaling a renewed strategic direction within the Renault Group. Throughout these transformations, the Enstone factory has remained a constant, a hub of engineering prowess and racing heritage.

Driving DNA

Alpine, and its predecessors, have historically prided themselves on developing talent and fostering a strong team culture. The team's academy has been a pipeline for emerging drivers, a testament to its commitment to nurturing future champions. On track, the team has often been characterized by its robust chassis development and, until recently, its commitment to a works power unit. This integrated approach aimed to provide a holistic package, allowing for closer collaboration between chassis and engine departments. The team's approach to racing has often prioritized strategic consistency and maximizing opportunities, even when not at the absolute front of the grid.

The 2026 Lineup

Looking ahead to the significant regulatory changes of 2026, the BWT Alpine F1 Team has confirmed an intriguing driver pairing: Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan. Gasly, an established Grand Prix winner, brings experience and a proven ability to extract performance under pressure. Doohan, a product of the Alpine Academy, represents the next generation of talent, poised to make his full-time F1 debut. Under the leadership of Team Principal Oliver Oakes, this lineup will be tasked with navigating a new era for the team, particularly with the fundamental shift in power unit philosophy.

What's at Stake

The 2026 season marks a pivotal moment for Alpine, as the team transitions from its long-standing works Renault power unit to a customer Mercedes engine supply. This decision fundamentally alters the team's identity, ending an era where it designed and manufactured its own power units. The move is a strategic gamble, aiming to free up resources to focus solely on chassis development and potentially benefit from a proven, top-tier engine supplier. The success of this transition, and how effectively the Enstone team can integrate the Mercedes power unit into their chassis, will be critical. For Alpine, 2026 is not just about new regulations, but about forging a new path for its future in Formula 1.