Alpine is reportedly considering a significant change by switching to Mercedes engines, which could happen as soon as 2025. Let’s break down what’s going on with this potential partnership and what it means for the future of Alpine in Formula 1.
- Renault is exploring the possibility of using Mercedes engines for Alpine.
- Alpine has struggled this season, prompting them to consider a switch.
- Talks between Alpine and Mercedes have reached an advanced stage.
- Mercedes is open to replacing Aston Martin with Alpine as a customer team.
Renault has reportedly launched a study into the future of its Viry-Chatillon engine base, exploring the possibility of transitioning to Mercedes customer power. Alpine, the only team currently using Renault power, has had a tough season, and multiple reports from Motorsport.com indicate that a customer deal with Mercedes might be on the horizon for the 2026 season. However, no final decision has been made yet.
Motorsport.com claims that discussions between Alpine and Mercedes have reached an ‘advanced stage,’ with new Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore advocating for the switch due to a belief that customer power would better serve the team. While no official deal has been signed, it’s reported that an agreement in principle is in place, potentially involving the use of Mercedes gearboxes and suspension as well, similar to what Aston Martin uses. If finalized early enough, the partnership could start as soon as 2025.
When asked about Alpine potentially becoming an engine customer, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said, ‘That’s a complicated situation, because we like the thought of replacing Aston Martin with another team, because of the sheer learning you’re doing.’ He added that while they are open to discussions, Alpine needs to decide whether to continue with its Formula 1 engine program. ‘And only when they have taken that strategic decision, we would dive into our agreements. But we’re open-minded, and that’s what we have told them,’ Wolff explained.
As for the future of Renault’s current engine facility in Viry-Chatillon, senior management has reportedly informed Alpine about a potential change of direction if their F1 involvement were to shift. While no final decision has been made, it is believed that the facility would remain crucial to Renault’s sporting and automotive endeavors. Alpine declined to comment on the reports when approached by PlanetF1.com.
This potential shake-up could mark a significant turning point for Alpine in Formula 1.
Source: Planetf1
