Exclusive: Alpine could abandon Renault engines and become F1 customer team in 2026

In a shocking turn of events, sources close to the French Formula 1 team Alpine have revealed that they are considering a drastic change in their engine strategy for the 2026 season. According to insiders, Alpine is weighing the option of abandoning their Renault-powered engines and instead becoming a customer team, potentially partnering with a rival manufacturer.

This bombshell news has sent shockwaves through the F1 paddock, as Alpine has been synonymous with Renault power since their rebranding from Renault F1 Team in 2021. The team’s current contract with Renault is set to expire at the end of the 2025 season, and it appears that Alpine is exploring alternative options for their engine supply.

While Alpine has not officially confirmed the rumors, sources suggest that the team is unhappy with the performance and reliability of their current Renault power units. Despite a promising start to the 2023 season, Alpine’s results have been inconsistent, and the team has struggled to match the pace of their rivals.

One potential suitor for Alpine’s engine needs is Mercedes-AMG, who have a proven track record of supplying customer teams with competitive power units. Mercedes has a history of partnering with smaller teams, having previously supplied engines to the likes of Williams and Force India. A deal with Alpine would mark a significant coup for the German manufacturer, as they look to expand their influence in the F1 paddock.

Another option for Alpine could be a partnership with Ferrari, who have also been open to supplying customer teams in the past. Ferrari’s power units have been highly competitive in recent seasons, and a deal with Alpine would provide the Italian manufacturer with a valuable foothold in the midfield battle.

The implications of Alpine’s potential switch to a customer team are far-reaching. For Renault, the loss of their works team would be a significant blow, as they would no longer have a direct presence on the F1 grid. This could lead to a re-evaluation of Renault’s commitment to F1, and potentially even a withdrawal from the sport altogether.

For Alpine, the move would mark a significant shift in their identity and strategy. The team would need to adapt to a new engine supplier, which could bring both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, a customer deal could provide Alpine with a more competitive power unit, allowing them to challenge for podiums and even wins. On the other hand, the team would need to cede some control over their engine development, which could limit their ability to innovate and improve.

As the F1 paddock continues to digest this news, one thing is clear: the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting in recent memory. With Alpine’s future engine plans hanging in the balance, fans and pundits alike will be watching with bated breath to see how this saga unfolds.