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BWT Alpine Formula One Team steps firmly into the new 2026 era of Formula 1, determined to turn the page after a challenging 2025 campaign.
From the decks of the MSC World Europa, docked in Barcelona, the team revealed the Alpine A526 – its all-new challenger built to meet the radical new technical regulations introduced this season. A unique setting for a clear ambition: to put Alpine back on track.
In front of a gathering of partners, media and invited guests, Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto unveiled the A526’s livery, once again combining Alpine’s signature blue with BWT’s emblematic pink.
David Sanchez, newly appointed executive technical director, outlined the scale of the project undertaken at Enstone in collaboration with Brixworth. The result is a car that’s shorter, lighter, and built to meet the new aerodynamic demands. With a 30 kg weight reduction, revised dimensions, and the return of active aero, the A526 breaks away from its predecessors in every aspect. This new generation, shaped by regulation, aims to deliver closer, more spectacular racing.
Alpine A526: a completely new project
The launch of the Alpine A526 goes far beyond a new livery. It’s a ground-up overhaul. New chassis, new engine layout, new approach. Alpine is starting from a clean sheet, ready to tackle 2026 with a sharper set of tools.
“The reduced dimensions and the introduction of active aero have completely changed our design approach,” explained David Sanchez. “The car is more agile, freer in its concept, but also more complex to understand. Our partnership with Mercedes-AMG was essential to maximise the performance of the overall package.”
Drivers now face a whole new layer of complexity with energy management modes – boost, recharge, overtake – becoming a fundamental part of racing.
They said it
Pierre Gasly
“This is the first time in my career that a car has undergone such radical changes.
Obviously, everyone is entering the unknown, but I find that incredibly exciting as a driver. It’s been a long road for the team to get to this point. We did a huge amount of simulator work last year to prepare for the new regulations, and I know the entire Enstone crew has worked tirelessly to deliver the best possible package.
What we’ll see during the shakedown next week will be revealing, but these won’t be the final-spec cars. We’ll keep learning and developing the package every time we hit the track.
I’m not setting any hard targets. We need to work relentlessly with the team to identify where we can improve. We’ll take things one day at a time, trying to be as competitive as we can throughout the year. Of course I’m excited and optimistic, but I’m also realistic about our ambitions. Right now, I just feel incredibly proud of what the team has accomplished in preparing the A526.”
Franco Colapinto – First full season in Formula 1:
“Above all, I’m extremely excited. For the first time in my career, I’ve had a proper off-season to prepare for a full campaign – from the very first test to the opening race. That means a lot to me. I feel genuinely part of this project, and it’s allowed me to hit the ground running with the team.
We’ve had the chance to explore the car and prepare in the simulator. Of course, it’s very different from anything I’ve driven before – and I think that’s true for most of the grid. There are new subtleties to master and fresh challenges to face to extract the full potential of the package, and I find that thrilling.
I know the whole team is highly motivated to deliver a strong season. My aim is to learn as much as I can in the early races and keep progressing. Hopefully, that will allow us to be competitive as a team.”
Paul Aron – Reserve driver:
“I’m excited to be part of this new era in Formula 1 and eager to learn as much as I can.
As a reserve driver, it’ll be crucial to quickly get to grips with the new systems and spend plenty of time in the simulator to help push the team forward. It’s a great opportunity and I can’t wait for the season to start.”
Flavio Briatore – Executive advisor:
“We’re taking it step by step. We don’t know where we’ll stand at the first race – and even less at the last.
Development will be key, and understanding how to unlock the package at every circuit will make all the difference. We know it’s a long road, but we’re ready for it.
Pierre and Franco’s hunger for success is clear. Last year was tough for everyone – especially for them – and it’s our duty to give them the car that will allow their talent to shine at the front of the field.”
What’s next?
From Barcelona to Bahrain, all roads lead to Melbourne
After an initial shakedown in damp conditions at Silverstone earlier this week, the team has arrived in Spain for its official rollout, scheduled for Monday. These first runs will serve to validate systems, begin setup work, and launch a vital phase of learning. Two three-day test sessions in Bahrain will follow before the 2026 championship kicks off in Melbourne on March 8.
In this time of sweeping technical change, BWT Alpine Formula One Team is counting on Pierre Gasly’s consistency, Franco Colapinto’s raw potential, and the growing expertise within Enstone to return to where it belongs.
Alpine didn’t come back to Formula 1 to simply take part. The A526 might just be the car to prove it.
Source : BWT Alpine Formula One Team
