Jordan's Track Talk

Tag: Alpine

  • Alpine unveil new car for 2026

    Alpine have pulled the covers off their 2026 F1 car, the A526, during a launch event in Barcelona.

    Two days on from the challenger getting its first track running as part of a filming day at Silverstone, Alpine gave fans a look at their new machine and its livery for the upcoming campaign.

    As in recent years, the Enstone based team have continued with their distinctive blue and pink colour scheme as they prepare to go racing in a season that will feature a wave of new technical regulations.

    Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto remain as the team’s driver line-up while the leadership team features Managing Director Steve Nielsen – who joined in September and Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore.

    The team will be hoping to make major strides forward following a tough 2025 season that saw them finish last in the Constructors’ Standings with just 22 points, 48 behind their nearest rival Kick Sauber.

    They elected to switch their focus to developing the 2026 challenger at an early stage to prepare for both the new regulations and the major change in power unit from Renault to Mercedes, leaving Gasly and Colapinto with plenty to adjust to ahead of the first race.

    Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for BWT Alpine Formula One Team. It is with great pleasure to begin our season here in Barcelona with our partner MSC Cruises on board the MSC World Europa as we prepare for what will undoubtedly be a unique season in Formula One history, not least for us with the new technical regulations, which offer a clean sheet of paper and a great opportunity for us to be more competitive than previous campaigns. It has been a relentless few months at the Enstone factory in preparation for the season, designing and creating the A526, together with Mercedes-AMG who will supply the new power unit and gearbox from this season; a partnership we are very much excited about. To be joined by so many of our partners including title partner BWT, our hosts MSC Cruises and premium partner Eni at this event, where we unveil our livery, is just fantastic. I thank them all, both new partners, and existing ones, for their commitment to the team, especially after our challenges on track last year
    Briatore on the launch.

  • Gademan continues with Alpine

    Nina Gademan will be returning for a sophomore F1 Academy season after Alpine confirmed that the Dutch driver is to continue representing the team in 2026.

    The 22 year old enjoyed a strong rookie season, scoring her first win on home soil in Zandvoort alongside three further podium finishes in Montreal and Las Vegas, she finished sixth in the Standings.

    Racing with compatriots MP Motorsport for the upcoming season, Gademan is confident that their partnership can drive both forward to challenge for the top step.

    I’m really happy to be part of the MP Motorsport family for next year. They have been strong performers in F1 ACADEMY from the start, and it’s always an advantage to race with your home team. With the experience and circuit knowledge that I gained this year, I feel that I am ready to challenge for more wins and the title in 2026. The team and I aim to use the winter ahead to fully prepare ourselves for the season kick-off at Shanghai in March, when I hope you will see me fighting right at the front.
    Gademan on the news.

  • Alpine part ways with Doohan

    Alpine have announced that they are parting ways with Jack Doohan ahead of the 2026 season, ending a whirlwind experience for the Australian at the team.

    Doohan, son of five-time 500cc motorcycling World Champion Mick, joined Alpine Academy in 2022, before taking on reserve driver duties for 2023 and classifying third in that year’s F2 Championship.

    An unexpected debut came at the end of the 2024 season in Abu Dhabi, when Alpine split with Esteban Ocon a round early, before the youngster was given the chance to step up full time for the 2025 season.

    However, Doohan’s time alongside Pierre Gasly lasted just six rounds, with Alpine – following several waves of speculator and media reports – deciding to bring in former Williams super-sub Franco Colapinto as his replacement.

    While the change was initially described as a seat rotation, Alpine stuck with Argentinian racer for the rest of the season, while Doohan – demoted to test and reserve duties – watched from the sidelines.

    Doohan’s next move is yet to be announced, though he was seen testing Super Formula machinery in the closing months of 2025.

    BWT Alpine Formula One Team confirms it has reached a mutual agreement with Jack Doohan to not continue his driving services with the team for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship season and allow him to pursue other career opportunities. Jack became the first member of the Alpine Academy to graduate into a race seat with the team when he made his Grand Prix debut at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The team would like to thank Jack for his commitment and professionalism to the team for the past four years, both on and off track, and wishes him all the best for the future.
    Alpine’s statement.

  • Alpine confirm 2026 launch date

    Alpine have become the latest team to announce details of their launch ahead of the 2026 season.

    The Enstone-based squad took to social media to reveal that the event will take place in Barcelona on January 23rd, just days before the first pre-season test gets underway at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from January 26th – 30th.

    While the date and location were confirmed, Alpine did not reveal any further information about the nature of their launch but added the caption: “We’ve got something to show you…”

    The team will be hoping for a better season ahead in 2026, having found themselves at the bottom of the Teams’ Championship during the 2025 campaign.

    They will field an unchanged driver line-up next year with Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto both remaining with the team.

  • Colapinto confirmed for 2026

    Franco Colapinto will complete Alpine’s driver line-up alongside Pierre Gasly in 2026, the team have announced.

    The 22 year old joined Alpine in January as a reserve driver on a multi-year deal before earning promotion to a race seat after six races as a replacement for Jack Doohan.

    The Argentine endured a difficult start to his time at the team with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore conceding in August that he was not happy with Colapinto’s performance.

    However, Colapinto went on to up his game and in the last six Grands Prix has been competitive relative to team mate Gasly, who in September committed his future to the team until at leas the end of 2028.

    The improved form – in what is the slowest car on the grid – made him favourite to keep his seat for 2026, with the team believed to have narrowed the choice down to him or fellow reserve Paul Aron.

    I’ve been following Franco’s progress throughout his time in Formula 1 and I have always believed that he has the right attributes and potential to be a top driver who can grow with the team. Our decision to continue together for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver. It has been a tough year for the whole team, and it hasn’t been the easiest scenario to perform in, however both Franco and Pierre have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season. With the line-up of Pierre and Franco, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help drive the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer and shout about next season.
    Briatore on the news.

    I am very grateful to Flavio and the entire team for their belief in me to help drive the team forwards in the future. Ever since I made my Formula 1 debut, I knew, given the circumstances at play, it would be a huge challenge to keep my place in this sport. It has been a long and tough road, and I am very proud for the opportunity to drive with this team again in 2026, alongside Pierre, who has been a great team mate and will undoubtedly be someone I can continue to learn from. Finally, it is very special and timely to make this announcement here in Brazil this weekend. Being so close to my home country of Argentina and an event that feels like a home race for me where I have so much support. To have so many fans on this journey with me and the team is why we go racing and next year, when there should be a reset in Formula 1, we can hopefully give every single person who cheers for us something to truly smile and celebrate. Vamos Alpine!
    Colapinto on the news.

  • Gasly signs new contract extension with Alpine

    Pierre Gasly has committed his long-term future to Alpine by signing a contract extension that will see him race for the French manufacturer until at least the end of the 2028 campaign.

    The 29 year old joined Alpine ahead of the 2023 season and has since scored two podiums while also playing a key role in helping the team secure sixth place in the Teams’ Championship last season.

    Gasly’s previous contract wasn’t due to expire until the end of next season but both sides were keen to extend that deal by a further two years and so put pen to paper before the Italian Grand Prix.

    Alpine are having a challenging season as they are last in the F1 Constructors’ Championship, but Gasly had largely been the lead driver above Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto, scoring the team’s only points in Bahrain, Spain, Great Britain and Belgium.

    Next year sees a new set of car regulations, and Alpine have decided to not use their own Renault engines, instead taking Mercedes’ power units.

    I’m thrilled to commit my long-term future to Alpine. As a Frenchman, especially, driving for a French car company, it makes me feel very proud. Since I joined in 2023, I have always felt that this team is the right place to be for the future. Flavio’s support and belief in me, Francois’ commitment to the Formula 1 project, as well as the people we have in Enstone made this a natural decision and I want to be here in years to come and deliver on our joint objective: to win races and World Championships. We’re all in this together and I look forward to continuing this special story.
    Gasly on the news.

    Since I returned to the team, I have always stated how important it is to build and grow the competitiveness of BWT Alpine Formula One Team. We’re well prepared for the new era of Formula 1, beginning in 2026, and now we have our lead driver confirmed to bring us well into the future. Pierre has been an immense asset for the team during this challenging period. I have been very impressed with his attitude, dedication and talent and we look forward to continuing this project together for a long time.
    Briatore on the news.

  • Nielsen announced as Alpine Managing Director

    Alpine have signed Steve Nielsen as their Managing Director to oversee the day-to-day running of the team, reporting to executive advisor Flavio Briatore.

    The French manufacturer have been looking for a senior leader to manage the team on a daily basis following Oli Oakes’ departure from the Team Principal role in May.

    Following weeks of talks, Nielsen – a well respected member of the paddock – will leave his role as Chief Motorsports Operation Officer, Sporting, at commercial rights holder F1 to take up his new job on September 1st, ahead of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

    Briatore, who has known Nielsen for decades, will continue to have overall responsibility for the project.

    It marks a return to Enstone for Nielsen, who has spent multiple stints with the squad under the previous guises Benetton, Renault and Lotus, including as Sporting Director during the 2005 and 2006 World Championship winning years.

    In recent years, Nielsen has spent time at F1 and governing body the FIA, and also has team experience from his time at Tyrrell, Honda, Toro Rosso and Arrows.

    Alpine are currently bottom of the Teams’ Championship on 19 points but are hoping to improve their fortunes next season when they switch to Mercedes power.

  • Aron to drive in FP1 with Kick Sauber

    Alpine Reserve Driver, Paul Aron will make his free practice debut at the upcoming British Grand Prix weekend with Kick Sauber after the rival teams came to an agreement to share his driving services.

    The Estonian driver, who competed in Formula 2 last season, is not racing competitively this year, with his focus currently helping Alpine with simulator work as they try and claw their way back up the standings from P10 in the Championship.

    Alpine entered the 2025 F1 Season with plenty of driving talent in reserve.
    While Ryo Hirakawa soon departed for Haas, the Enstone-based squad still have Jack Doohan alongside Aron – the Australian had started the year in a full-time race seat but was swapped out in favour of Franco Colapinto ahead of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.

    The agreement Alpine have reached with Kick Sauber will release Aron for two FP1 sessions this season, with every team having to give up four FP1 sessions across the year.

    Kick Sauber only need to give up two FP1 sessions this season, as they are running a designated rookie in their other car in Gabriel Bortoleto. As such, Aron will replace Nico Hulkenberg at Silverstone and in Budapest.

    I am very pleased to be given the opportunity to have valuable track time in Formula 1, so thanks to BWT Alpine Formula One Team for coming to this arrangement. It is no secret that my desire is to one day race full-time in Formula 1 so any chance to be on track in a competitive environment is an important stepping stone. While I continue to focus on my development with Alpine, I do look forward to the two sessions with Kick Sauber and giving my maximum effort to them at Silverstone and Budapest.
    Aron on the news.

    It is in our interests to maximise any driving opportunities for our young talent, so it is good to have an agreement with Sauber for Paul to drive in Free Practice 1 in Silverstone and Budapest. We are seeing varied success from last year’s Formula 2 drivers this year up and down the grid, and Paul was a front runner in that category, so this is an opportunity for him and the team to continue his progress and to give him valuable track time.
    Briatore on the news.

  • Alpine confirm Colapinto to replace Doohan

    Alpine have confirmed that Franco Colapinto will replace Jack Doohan for the next five race weekends, starting from this weekend’s Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, with the team deciding to “rotate” the race seat alongside Pierre Gasly.

    The news comes following the confirmation that Alpine Team Principal Oliver Oakes had resigned with immediate effect.
    Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore will be covering the duties previously performed by the Brit.

    Having previously served as a reserve driver for the Enstone based team, it was announced last summer that Doohan was set to be promoted to the main race squad for 2025.

    The 22 year old was then given an earlier-than-expected debut at the 2024 season finale in Abu Dhabi, following the departure of Haas-bound Esteban Ocon.

    After starting his first full-time campaign this year, Doohan has struggled to match teammate Gasly, and his troubles continued last time out in Miami, where he retired from the race following a lap 1 collision with Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson.

    Now Alpine have announced that Doohan’s seat will be filled by Colapinto for the next five rounds with the Argentinian having been signed to the outfit as one of their roster of reserve drivers following his impressive nine-race run as a substitute for Williams in 2024.

    As part of an on-going assessment of its driver line-up, the team has made the decision to rotate one of its race seats for the next five rounds of the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship. BWT Alpine Formula One Team therefore announces that Franco Colapinto will be paired with Pierre Gasly from the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, ahead of a new evaluation before the British Grand Prix in July. Jack Doohan remains an integral part of the team and will be the first-choice Reserve Driver for this period of time.
    Alpine’s statement.

    Firstly, I want to thank the team for giving me the opportunity to drive competitively for the next five races. I will work hard with the team to prepare for the next race in Imola and the upcoming triple-header, which will no doubt be intense and a big challenge for everyone. I have stayed sharp, and I am as ready as possible with the team’s race support testing programme, as well as on the simulator at Enstone. I will do my best to get up to speed quickly and give it my all to deliver the best possible results alongside Pierre.
    Colapinto on the news.

    I am very proud to have achieved my lifelong ambition to be a professional Formula 1 driver and I will forever be grateful to the team for helping me achieve this dream. Obviously, this latest chapter is a tough one for me to take because, as a professional driver, naturally I want to be racing. That said, I appreciate the team’s trust and commitment. We have long-term goals as a team to achieve and I will continue to give my maximum efforts in any way I can to help achieve those. For now, I will keep my head down, keep working hard, watch with interest the next five races and keep chasing my own personal goals.
    Doohan on the news.

  • Alpine announce resignation of Team Principal

    Following on from the Miami Grand Prix, Alpine have announced that Team Principal Oliver Oakes has resigned from the team with immediate effect.

    Oakes joined Alpine in July 2024, the former racing driver, who also runs the Hitech Grand Prix squad – overseeing a strong end to the season that saw the team lift themselves to sixth in the Teams’ Championship.

    Post-Miami, the team currently sits P9 in the Teams’ standings on seven points, only one point ahead of Kick Sauber, as Jack Doohan was still to score this season.

    It remains to be seen who Alpine will look to replace Oakes with, but in the mean time Flavio Briatore will be taking the role of team principal too.

    Oakes joins the likes of Otmar Szafnauer and Bruno Famin on the list of Alpine team bosses who have left the position in the previous two years.

    BWT Alpine Formula One Team announces that Oliver Oakes has resigned from his role as Team Principal. The team has accepted his resignation with immediate effect. As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as Executive Advisor and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes. The team would like to thank Oliver for his efforts since he joined last summer and for his contribution in helping the team secure sixth place in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship. The team will not be making any further comment.
    The teams’ statement.

    A lot has been said in the past 24 hours incorrectly associating the decision of Oli resigning to an alleged disagreement, or that we shared different views. This is completely false and far from the truth. Me and Oli have a very good relationship and had long-term ambitions to drive this team forward together. We respect Oli’s request to resign and have therefore accepted his resignation. The reasons are not related to the team and are of a personal nature. I will continue to be more and more involved with the team, together with the strong management we already have in place. We will work hard on improving our position this season and preparing for 2026.
    Flavio Briatore on the news.

    It’s been a privilege to lead everyone at Enstone. What a team, what a place. It is a personal decision for me to step down. Flavio has been like a father to me, nothing but supportive since I took the role, as well as giving me the opportunity. Everyone is in place for 2026 and where this dream deserves to be! I believe in Enstone.
    Oakes on the news.

  • Alpine’s reserve Ryo Hirakawa to drive in FP1

    Alpine have announced that Ryo Hirakawa – one of their reserve drivers for 2025 – will get behind the wheel of the A525 in front of his home crowd during Free Practice 1 at the Japanese Grand Prix.

    Hirakawa – who previously enjoyed his debut practice run with McLaren at last year’s season finale in Abu Dhabi – has extensive experience across different categories of motorsport, having competed in various single-seater and endurance championships.

    This saw him take victory in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022, while he is also a two-time Hypercar champion in the FIA World Endurance Championship.

    Now, after previously testing Formula 1 machinery for McLaren and Haas, Hirakawa will get his first taste of a 2025 car during his home event at the Suzuka Circuit, with the 31 year old set to take over Jack Doohan’s challenger for the session.

    I’m very excited, I can’t wait to drive the A525 in Free Practice 1 this weekend. I’m looking back to 18 years ago to 2007, the first time I went to watch the Japanese Grand Prix, it was a different track, Fuji, but it was Formula 1 in Japan. Since then, I started my racing career and now to drive during the weekend is going to be a dream come true, I just can’t wait. I have got everything prepared, we did simulator work in Enstone a few days ago and I’m going to enjoy the moment. Hopefully the weather is good, it will be a short session, but I will enjoy it and do my best for the team to hopefully input some direction on set-up. I just want to add my appreciation to everyone at the team for the opportunity and support.
    Hirakawa on the news.

  • Alpine announce Kush Maini as Test and Reserve Driver

    Alpine Academy driver, Kush Maini will expand his role with the team in 2025 by becoming Test and Reserve Driver, with the Indian racer set to take on the additional duties alongside competing in Formula 2 with DAMS.

    Maini first joined the Alpine Academy in October 2023 before going on to race in the 2024 F2 season, during which he scored five podiums including a race win in Budapest.

    As he enters into his third Formula 2 campaign, Maini will also take on the position of Test and Reserve Driver for the Alpine F1 Team.

    As part of his role, the 24 year old will use the driver-in-loop simulator at the squad’s Enstone base to support their car development and set up objectives as well as participating in the TPC programme (Testing of Previous Cars) to continue to improve his skills.

    Maini joins a pool of reserve drivers at Alpine that also includes Paul Aron, Ryo Hirakawa and former Williams super-sub Franco Colapinto.

    I am delighted to step up to the role of Test and Reserve Driver for BWT Alpine Formula 1 Team this season. Since joining the Alpine Academy ahead of last year, I have been incredibly welcomed in the entire Alpine family and I am thankful to Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] for their continued support. I am looking forward to getting more track time in Formula 1 machinery in this role and to build on what I have already learned with the team in 2024. I’m very excited to begin the role as soon as possible but for now my focus is on my third season in Formula 2 kicking off this weekend in Australia.
    Maini on the news.

    We are very happy to announce the expansion of Kush’s role in the Alpine Academy to include Test and Reserve Driver duties for the team this season. Kush has impressed the team across his TPC performances and Formula 2 results whilst we have been working with him and we expect he will continue to do so in 2025. His wider role allows us to further expand our pool of driving talent who can provide support and resources to the whole team during the busy season.
    Julian Rouse, Alpine Academy Director.

  • Alpine confirm Colapinto as reserve driver

    Franco Colapinto will join Alpine as one of their reserve drivers in 2025, it has been announced with the Argentinian racer further bolstering the team’s back-up pool for the season ahead.

    Colapinto burst on the F1 scene last year when Williams drafted him in to replace Logan Sargeant who was struggling for form in his second season – from the Italian Grand Prix weekend.

    Stopping his first full term in F2, which had yielded a breakthrough victory, the 21 year old immediately looked at home behind the wheel of F1 machinery, reaching Q3 and scoring points at only his second race weekend in Azerbaijan.

    Colapinto bagged another point at the United States Grand Prix and while subsequent incidents took the shine off his arrival, he had turned heads in the paddock and drew plenty of praise from Team Principal, James Vowles.

    Colapinto’s initial performances saw him linked with several rival teams over a potential 2025 race seat, but none of these ultimately materialised, while Williams had already signed Carlos Sainz to partner Alex Albon.

    Now following plenty of media reports, the next chapter of a rollercoaster F1 journey so far will see Colapinto to join Alpine’s reserve roster.

    I am super excited to have the opportunity to join BWT Alpine Formula One Team. First of all, I want to say thank you to Williams for all their support from the moment I joined the Academy until the last race in Abu Dhabi. They turned my dream of racing in Formula One into reality, and I will always be grateful for that. Now, it is time for a new chapter, and to take on this challenge with BWT Alpine Formula One Team is truly an honour. A huge thank you to Luca [de Meo], Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] for believing in me and welcoming me into the team with open arms. I cannot wait to get started and see where this journey takes us. Also, a massive thank you to all my sponsors and partners who stood by me through the challenges of the 2024 season. Your support made it all possible, and to my incredible fans in Argentina: ‘Muchas gracias!’ Your passion and encouragement mean the world to me. Let’s aim for even greater things in 2025 and beyond.
    Colapinto on the news.

    We are very pleased to come to an agreement with Williams Racing to sign Franco Colapinto. Clearly, Franco is among the best young talents in motorsport right now. It is fair to say his appearance on the Formula One grid last year caught many, me included, by surprise and his performances have been very impressive for a rookie driver. We have an eye on our future and his signing means we have a great pool of young drivers to call upon and work with in developing the team for future success.
    Flavio Briatore, Executive Advisor at Alpine.

  • Ryo Hirakawa joins Alpine as reserve

    Alpine have announced that Japanese racer, Ryo Hirakawa will be added to the team’s test and reserve driver pool for the 2025 season, joining confirmed Paul Aron.

    Hirakawa will bring wide-ranging motorsport experience to Alpine, having competed in various single-seater and endurance championships, as well as testing Formula 1 machinery with McLaren and Haas.

    Not only this, he also claimed overall victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022 and is a two-time Hypercar champion in the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2022 and 2023!

    The Japanese drivers role at Alpine will involve him participating in the team’s Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) programme and supporting with car development and technical understanding via their simulator.
    After a maiden practice run with McLaren in Abu Dhabi last year, and an appearance at the post-season test with Haas, the 30 year old will also get an FP1 outing on his home soil at the Japanese Grand Prix in April.

    It is an honour to be joining BWT Alpine Formula One Team as a Test and Reserve Driver for the 2025 season. As always, the opportunity of track time in Formula 1 machinery is the pinnacle for race drivers and I am excited to drive in Free Practice 1 in front of my home crowd at the Japanese Grand Prix, as well as working with the team testing previous cars. It is a great opportunity to be working with such a dedicated team that utilises the breadth of experience of its driver pool and I look forward to playing a part in making 2025 a positive year together.
    Hirakawa on the news.

    It is great to bring Ryo on board with the team for 2025 and have him step in to take over driving duties for FP1 in Japan in front of his home crowd. His addition brings a diverse range of racing experience to our current roster and expands the pool of talent available to call upon throughout the season.
    Oliver Oakes, Team Principal added.

  • Nina Gademan enters F1 Academy with Alpine

    Nina Gademan will be making her full-time F1 Academy debut this year, with Alpine announcing that the Dutch racer will be representing them on the grid.

    The 21 year old becomes the third Wild Card driver to make the step up after an impressive performance during Round 4 in Zandvoort.
    Gademan secured P4 and P10 finishes, earning her 13 points on home soil – the first Wild Card entry to do so.

    Prior to this, she won the 2019 FIA Motorsport Games Karting Slalom Cup for Team Netherlands.
    This year saw Gademan make her single-seater debut competing in the F4 British Championship, scoring her first rookie podium during Round 4 at Thruxton.

    I am incredibly proud to be representing BWT Alpine Formula One Team in the 2025 F1 ACADEMY season. This is a moment I once thought might never come, and it is a dream come true. Having the support of a team with such an incredible legacy means the world to me. I am deeply grateful for Alpine’s trust and belief in me, and I can’t wait to make the 2025 season an unforgettable chapter in this journey.
    Gademan on the news.

    We are happy to have Nina coming on board as our F1 ACADEMY driver selection for the 2025 season. It was great to see her step up into single seaters at the start of 2024 and to claim points on her F1 ACADEMY debut as the Wild Card in Zandvoort. We are excited to see what she can do in the series next year. Nina will be a fantastic addition to our line-up of junior drivers, and we look forward to working with her throughout 2025.
    Oliver Oakes, Alpine Team Principal.

  • Aron joins Alpine as reserve driver

    Alpine have confirmed that Formula 2 racer Paul Aron will join the squad as their 2025 F1 reserve driver.

    The 20 year old has just competed in his first F2 Championship with Hitech Pulse-Eight and finished the season in third where he grabbed the second-best rookie.

    He added a dominant pole in Qatar and the feature race win as well but unfortunately it was not enough to grab the Drivers’ Championship.

    Aron is a driver Alpine’s Team Principal, Oliver Oakes knows well, with the British boss having previously been in charge of Hitech before he joined the Enstone outfit in August this year.

    It’s incredibly special to be joining BWT Alpine Formula One Team. It is clear that this is a great place to be for any young driver and I’m really pleased that Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] have given me this opportunity. Before 2025 and the hard work that will come with being the team’s Reserve Driver, I have a Championship to focus on for the remainder of this year and I will be giving it my all to compete for the title. I’m looking forward to really beginning the work and continuing my career pathway in motorsport.
    Aron on the announcement.

    We are very pleased to have Paul join BWT Alpine Formula One Team as our 2025 Reserve Driver. There is a generational shift in Formula 1 at the moment, as we see with many young drivers coming into the sport and making an impact. We believe Paul is one of the best talents and we look forward to developing him into an F1 driver.
    Flavio Briatore, Alpine Executive Advisor.

  • Schumacher to leave Mercedes as reserve driver at end of 2024.

    Mercedes have confirmed that Mick Schumacher will leave his role as the squad’s reserve driver at he end of 2024 following two years with the team.

    Schumacher joined the Brackley team ahead of the 2023 season – off the back of a two-season stint on the grid with Haas – and has since gone on to perform simulator work for the Silver Arrows as well as providing feedback during tests and races.

    Alongside this position, Schumacher has also competed for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and now looks set to pursue new opportunities in 2025 following news of his exit from Mercedes.
    With Alpine also confirming the German driver will again be one of their six drivers for the 2025 campaign.

    Mick’s hard work, diligence, and determination in his role as Reserve Driver has been vital for the team over the past two years. From his work in the simulator, testing of various cars, and being part of the trackside team, we couldn’t have asked for any more from him. From day one, he fitted into the team with ease and has become an incredibly well-liked colleague for everyone at Brackley and Brixworth. However, Mick is first and foremost a racing driver. We have seen from both his time in F1, and this year with his performances in the World Endurance Championship, that he is a racer of an incredibly high calibre and one that deserves to be competing in the very best championships. As he moves on to his next challenge, I would like to thank Mick personally for his contribution to our team and we all wish him the very best in his future endeavours.
    Wolff on the news.

    I am grateful to Toto and the entire Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team for the insight I have gained over these two years. They have undoubtedly made me a more experienced racing driver because I have got to know the engineering side better. But watching these cars race and not sitting in the cockpit myself is tough. I want to get back to focusing 100% on racing. I want to be fully committed to the sporting side of motorsport. Ultimately, it is racing that you want to do as a driver, it is racing that gives you that feeling you love.
    Schumacher on leaving the team.

  • Alpine to use Mercedes power unit from 2026

    Alpine have secured a deal with Mercedes to run the German manufacturer’s power unit from 2026 until at least the end of 2030.

    The deal also involves taking a supply of their gearbox from the start of 2026 – though sources say Alpine are planning on producing their own gearbox in-house at Enstone from 2027.

    Last month, Alpine confirmed they will shut down their works engine programme at the end of next season as part of their ‘Hypertech’ transformation project.

    The team had already been in talks with other manufacturers about a customer engine supply, with Mercedes emerging as the team to strike a deal first.

    Alpine will continue to manufacturer their own power units through the 2025 campaign before switching in 2026, when new power unit rules come in to play – that feature a greater focus on the battery and use of 100% sustainable fuels.

    Alpine secured their biggest points haul of the season with a remarkable double podium finish last time out in Brazil. Which catapulted them up three places to sixth in the constructors’ championship with three Grands Prix to go.

    The multi-year agreement will see Mercedes-Benz supply Alpine with Power Units for the duration of the new regulations era, from 2026 until at least 2030. Alongside the Power Unit, Alpine will also be supplied with Mercedes gearboxes from the 2026 season. The team remains focused on performing in the strongest way possible in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
    Alpine’s statement.

  • Alpine confirm Doohan to race in Abu Dhabi

    Alpine have confirmed that Jack Doohan will be making his F1 race debut earlier than expected in the season closing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with the team releasing Esteban Ocon in a deal that allows the French driver to participate in the post-season test for new team Haas.

    It was confirmed back in June that Ocon would be departing the Enstone-based team after the 2024 season, bringing his five-year spell at the team to an end.
    News later followed that he would be switching to Haas for 2025, where he will be partnered by rookie Ollie Bearman.

    Alpine, meanwhile went on to confirm that reserve driver Doohan would become part of their line-up next season as teammate to the incumbent Pierre Gasly – but now the Australian is set to get his first taste of a Grand Prix sooner than thought.

    While this means that Ocon will not be a part of the 58 lap finale, he will still get to put in some mileage at the Yas Marina Circuit when he gets behind the wheel for Haas at the end of season test.

    It comes after Ocon faced a difficult weekend in Qatar, having lined up at the back of the grid before seeing his race end at the first corner following a Lap 1 collision with Hulkenberg and Colapinto.

    BWT Alpine Formula One Team announces that Reserve Driver Jack Doohan will race in the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in place of Esteban Ocon. The change allows Esteban to be released to Haas to drive in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi. Jack, who has already been announced as an official driver for the 2025 season alongside Pierre Gasly, will race with the #61 as his registered Reserve Driver number and will also participate in the end-of-season test for the team at the Yas Marina Circuit. The team would like to thank Esteban for his time at the team and he will remain part of the team’s history achieving the first win for Alpine in Formula 1. We wish Esteban the best for the future.
    Alpine’s Statement.

    I think it comes from all sides really. I guess you could say it’s good to get Jack in early, I think you could say from Esteban’s side it’s good to move on early. I think it suits everybody, so I think the discussion was quite natural really, and I think Esteban’s been a big part of this team as well and from both sides it suits each other.
    Oakes on whether the move was prompted by the team or Ocon’s camp.

  • Alpine present Indiana Jones livery

    Alpine have joined Haas in showing off a special car livery for the United States Grand Prix weekend in Austin, with their striking design celebrating the return of legendary adventure character Indiana Jones in an upcoming video game.

    Via a collaboration with team partner Xbox, Alpine are building up to the release of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle – which is scheduled for Spring 2025 – with a ‘sunset orange’ colour scheme and themed driver suits inspired by the franchise logo.

    Diving into the car livery, it features an ancient map and red travel routes as showcased in the iconic film series, with the title of the game also emblazoned on the vehicle, while the suits include a world map with golden notes.

    This is not the first time that Alpine have produced a film-inspired livery and race suits in 2024, with Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon sporting another bold look inspired by the Deadpool & Wolverine movie at the Belgian Grand Prix.

    Working with the Xbox team to bring alive the incredible Indiana Jones and the Great Circle livery for the United States Grand Prix has been fantastic. The new look will be right at home in the Austin setting this weekend.
    Oliver Oakes, Alpine Team Boss.

  • Renault cancel plans to build Alpine works engine

    Renault have confirmed the cancellation of their plans to supply engines for the 2026 Formula 1 season and beyond.

    The French manufacturer announced that its engine factory at Viry-Chatillon would be transformed into an “engineering centre of excellence” by the end of 2024.

    The decision comes ahead of the introduction of new engine regulations to F1 in 2026, with the Renault Group-owned Alpine team is now expected to agree a deal to have their power units supplied by Mercedes.

    This announcement follows months of speculation and unrest at the company, which saw Viry staff members travel to the Italian Grand Prix during the summer to protest then-developing plans to close the factory.

    Alpine’s F1 operations are currently split across two factories, the engine-focused division in France and the chassis focused is in the UK.

    Alpine will continue running their current Renault engine for the remainder of this season and all of 2025.

    The engine’s poor performance has been a factor in the team’s struggles this season, with the team sitting ninth out of 10 in the Constructors’ Championship with just six rounds remaining.

    As a result of the consultation process with the employee representatives, during which discussions were constructive and an independent assessment was conducted, Alpine’s management confirms its project to transform the site into a centre of engineering and high-tech excellence by late 2024. Formula 1 activities at Viry, excluding the development of a new engine, will continue until the end of the 2025 season. Each employee affected by this transformation project will be proposed a new position within Alpine Hypertech.
    The statement.

  • Doohan promoted to F1 with Alpine

    Alpine have announced that current reserve driver, Jack Doohan, will complete their line-up for the 2025 season – who is replacing Esteban Ocon as Pierre Gasly’s team mate.

    Australian racer Doohan, 21, has been part of Alpine’s dedicated academy since 2022, moving over to the operation after parting ways with the Red Bull junior set-up.

    Son of former 500cc motorcycle world champion, Mick, he placed third in last year’s F2 championship with three race wins, adding to a runner-up classification in the 2021 F3 standings.

    Doohan has been linked to a potential promotion with Alpine throughout the 2024 season, with those rumours stepping up a gear in the wake of the news that Ocon is moving to Haas.

    The Australian has racked up plenty of mileage in F1 machinery with Alpine over the last couple of years to prepare for an opening, completing a host of private tests and appearing in six FP1 sessions to date – Mexico and Abu Dhabi in 2022 and 2023, and Canada and Britain earlier this year.

    Alpine added that Doohan will continue his role as reserve driver for the remaining of the season, taking part in regular tests with the 2022-spec A522 F1 car, as well as duties in the team’s simulator on select race weekends.

    I am so happy to secure promotion into a full-time race seat in 2025 with BWT Alpine F1 Team. I am very grateful for the trust and belief by the team’s senior management. There is so much work ahead to be prepared and ready and I will give my best in the meantime to absorb as much information and knowledge to be ready for the step up. It’s exceptionally satisfying to be the first graduate of the Alpine Academy to be in a race seat with the team and I’m extremely thankful to those who supported me along the way to make this a reality. It’s an exciting moment, a proud day for my family, and I look forward to taking it all in and pushing hard behind the scenes.
    Doohan on the news.

    We are very excited to promote Jack into the race seat from next season and, in doing so, giving him the opportunity to showcase his skill and talent in Formula 1. Jack will become the first driver to graduate from the Alpine Academy into a race driver position with the team, so that is exceptionally pleasing for the team and its young driver pathway. Personally, I have worked with Jack back in 2019 and I am fully aware of his raw talent and potential. He is a very hard worker behind the scenes and his commitment is hugely valued by the entire team. Alongside Pierre, we have a well-balanced driver line-up with a good combination between youthful energy, experience, and pure speed. We look forward to working with both Jack and Pierre in order to keep developing the car and bring the team up the grid.
    Oliver Oakes, Alpine’s Team Principal.

  • Alpine announce Oliver Oakes as Team Principal

    Alpine have confirmed that Oliver Oakes is joining the team as their new Team Principal, following the news during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend that Bruno Famin would step down from the role.

    Famin stated at Spa-Francorchamps that he will depart the position at the end of August in order to focus on all other motorsport related activities for the Renault Group at Viry-Chatillon.

    It has now been announced that Oakes – a former racing driver who was once a member of the Red Bull Young Driver Programme – will fill the role.

    After competing in karting and single seater racing in the 2000s, Oakes moved into management and founded Hitech Grand Prix – a team that competes in both Formula 2 and Formula 3 – in 2015.

    Oakes will start in his new role after the summer break and will report to Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo.
    At 36 years old, the Brit becomes the second youngest Team Principal in Formula 1 history.

    I am extremely grateful to Luca de Meo and Flavio Briatore for this opportunity to lead BWT Alpine F1 Team back to competitiveness. The team has talented people and excellent resources at its core, and I am confident that we can accomplish a great deal together during the remainder of this season and the longer term. I look forward to getting started after the summer break.
    Oakes on the news.

    It is a pleasure to welcome Oli to the team and for him to become one of the youngest Team Principals that this sport has ever seen. This team is being built for future success and this is highlighted by Oli’s appointment in a senior role. We look forward to harnessing his enthusiasm, energy and passion for racing and realising that mindset across the entire team.
    De Meo added.

    I am delighted that we have been able to recruit Oli Oakes for our Formula 1 project. Oli is highly talented with a great record of leadership and success in racing. His move into this role is a great example of the strength and belief we have in our team and by young, upcoming people, and I’m excited to work closely with him with a joint focus on moving up the grid and winning races.
    Briatore also commented.

  • Alpine confirm Famin to leave his role as Team Principal

    Bruno Famin will move away from his role as Alpine Team Principal, the team have announced.

    The Frenchman had been confirmed as the Enstone-based outfit’s Team Principal before the start of the current F1 season, following an interim period in charge after the departure of previous team boss Otmar Szafnauer at last year’s Belgian Grand Prix.

    Just before last weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix weekend, it had been announced that Famin will move away from his role by the end of August and will be in charge of all other Motorsport activities of the Renault Group at Viry-Chatillon.

    The news comes after several changes at Alpine across recent months, with the squad undergoing a technical restructure that saw Technical Director Matt Harman and head of Aerodynamics Dirk de Beer leave earlier in the year.

    David Sanchez was then appointed as Executive Director in May, having previously worked for the outfit earlier in his career. He was later joined by Michael Broadhurst and Vin Dhanani as Chief Aerodynamicist and Head of Vehicle Performance respectively.

    In June, Flavio Briatore became Executive Advisor at Alpine, with the remit of his role being “predominantly focus on top level areas of the team” it was stated at the time.

    On the driver front, charges are being made for 2025, with Esteban Ocon departing the team at the end of the season which was confirmed in June.
    While Pierre Gasly has singed a multi-year extension to remain with the squad, his team mate has not yet been revealed.

    The background is there are many things together. The main one is we are at a very interesting moment for the Alpine brand, where we have a project that is even stronger than one year ago. Then there is a project of reallocating the resources within the brand from the Formula 1 power unit, where we have equally skilled people, to the brand itself in developing these high-end technologies. On the other hand, we have our new Executive Advisor [Briatore] who has arrived a few weeks ago – I work well [with him], I’m fine with him, I work well since he has arrived. But I think he has seen things with his own eyes, and on one hand I need to dedicate my time to the Viry-Chatillon people, who are doing an amazing job, and we need to be together to be able to deliver this transformation if it’s confirmed, and on the other hand I think the global governance of the F1 team will be clear.
    Famin on his exit as Team Principal.

  • Haas confirm Ocon for 2025

    Haas have signed Alpine’s Esteban Ocon on a multi-year contract to partner rookie Ollie Bearman in 2025.

    The team announced last week that Kevin Magnussen would be leaving at the end of the season, leaving a vacant seat that was widely believed to have been allocated to 27 year old Ocon.

    On Thursday in Belgium, ahead of the final race before the break and at the track where Ocon first made his F1 debut in 2016.
    Haas announced Ocon would become the first Grand Prix winner to race one of their cars since they entered the sport in 2016.

    Ocon has 146 career starts under his belt and has driven for Manor, Force India, Renault and Alpine – scoring 425 points in that period including three podiums, one of which was his maiden win in Hungary in 2021.

    The Frenchman has know Haas Team Principal, Ayao Komatsu a while, as the Japanese boss engineered Ocon in his first F1 test back in 2014, with Lotus (which now operates under the Alpine banner) at Valencia.

    I’m delighted we’ve secured Esteban Ocon’s services for Haas. I’ve obviously been aware of his talents for a long time and our personal history dates back to Esteban’s maiden run in a Formula 1 car – I was his race engineer that day with Lotus. He displayed his talents back then coming off the back of strong performances in the junior categories – he’d just won the 2014 European Formula 3 Championship. Esteban’s gone on to become an established talent in Formula 1 and of course a Grand Prix winner. The experience he brings, not just from his own talent base but also from working for a manufacturer team, will be advantageous to us in our growth as an organisation. It was vital we had a driver with experience in beside Oliver Bearman next year, but Esteban’s only 27 – he’s still young with a lot to prove as well. I think we have a hungry, dynamic driver pairing and I look forward to welcoming Esteban into Haas for 2025.
    Ayao Komatsu on the news.

    It was important to me that we have a driver with a known pedigree in Formula 1, and as a Grand Prix winner, Esteban undoubtedly fits that brief. Esteban’s proved himself in the teams he’s raced for as someone who’s continually in the mix and scoring points – it’s that continuity we’re keen to capitalise on as we look for increased performance gains on-track. We have a blend of youth and experience in our future driver line-up and I’m excited to see the results.
    Owner, Gene Haas on the news.

    I’ll be joining a very ambitious racing team, whose spirit, work ethic, and undeniable upward trajectory has really impressed me. I’d like to thank Gene Haas and Ayao Komatsu for their trust and support, and for our honest and fruitful discussions these last few months. On a more personal note, I’m very happy to be working with Ayao again, as he’s been a part of my debut when I first stepped into a Formula 1 car during my Lotus Junior days more than 10 years ago. Haas has exciting plans and clear targets for the future, and I’m very much looking forward to working with everyone in Kannapolis, Banbury and Maranello, and being part of this great project.
    Ocon on the news.

  • Alpine to run Deadpool & Wolverine livery

    Alpine will be racing with a special red and black livery for this weekend’s Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix to celebrate the release of Deadpool & Wolverine.

    Alpine will drop its usual black, pink and blue livery for a one-off Deadpool vs Wolverine – inspired livery.

    The livery features the red and black of Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool character as well as yellow slashes as a nod to Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine. The team’s mechanics will also wear Deadpool red at Spa.

    Esteban Ocon will recreate the red Deadpool mask with his helmet, while Gasly will sport a yellow and black Wolverine design.
    Ocon first used a similar design as one-off at the Las Vegas Grand Prix last year.

    Reynolds was a part of the investment group that acquired a 24% stake in Alpine’s F1 team in June last year.

    This is far from the first film-inspired F1 livery and its fair to say there’s been mixed results over the years.
    The fact it was Red Bull’s first podium made its one-off Superman Returns livery at the 2006 Monaco Grand Prix and driver capes all the more iconic.

    But there hasn’t been a properly good film tie-up that’s fully committed to it in the way that Alpine has.
    To ditch its traditional Renault colours and go with red – about as un-Renault-like as you can get.

  • Alpine bolster technical team

    Alpine have bolstered their technical team with a plethora of new employees, including three senior personnel with recent experience at rivals Red Bull and Ferrari.

    Michael Broadhurst and Vin Dhanani return to Enstone as Chief Aerodynamicist and Head of Vehicle Performance respectively, while Jacopo Fantoni takes on the role of Deputy Chief Engineer.

    Broadhurt – who spent seven years at Enstone earlier in his career – was Principal Aerodynamicist at Red Bull during a period when they won two constructors’ titles and previously worked at McLaren as Deputy Head of Aerodynamics.

    Dhanani joins after seven years at Red Bull, most recently as Vehicle Performance Team Leader. Before that, he spent around five years at Sauber and around the same time at Lotus.

    Fantoni has been on gardening leave since leaving Ferrari, where he spent 13 years – most recently as Head of Simulation in the design office alongside David Sanchez who has since joined Alpine.

    The trio started working at Enstone on 1st July and slot into Alpine’s three-pillared technical structure, centred around aerodynamics, performance and engineering.

    Alpine are in the midst of a rebuild following a suite of senior staff leaving the team over the last year or so – including their CEO, Chief Technical Officer, Technical Director, Sporting Director and Head of Aerodynamics.

    Alpine announced in Austria that Pierre Gasly had agreed a deal to stay until at least the end of 2026 – with the team now focused on securing the return of Carlos Sainz for the second seat.

  • Gasly commits to Alpine

    Alpine has agreed a multi-year extension with Pierre Gasly that will see the Frenchman stay with the Enstone-based team for 2025 and beyond.

    Gasly joined the French team at the start of last season, scoring 67 points over that 18 months period including third in the 2023 Belgian GP Sprint and third in the Dutch Grand Prix.

    Alpine had been pushing to secure Gasly following their decision to part ways with his current teammate Esteban Ocon at the end of the season.

    Alpine are chasing Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz for his signature to become Gasly’s teammate but it is believed the Spaniard is still undecided on his future.

    But should Sainz choose to drive elsewhere the team do have other options.
    They are considering promoting reserve driver Jack Doohan, or fellow academy driver Victor Martins, or going for experience like a 10 time race winner, Valtteri Bottas…

    I feel very much at home at this great team. I enjoy being a real part of both the Formula 1 project and the wider Alpine Cars vision. I’ve been officially here for over 18 months and it has always been the plan to build a long-term project with the Team. While on-track it’s been a challenging season so far, I remain faithful to the project and I am not going anywhere. I am happy with the changes made, the hard work, and the direction the team is taking. There is a lot of potential in this team’s personnel and resources. I’m excited for what is to come in the future and right now I’m focusing on the everyday details that we are putting in to improve our performances.
    Gasly on the news.

    The extension of Pierre’s contract with the team is very pleasing. He is a driver with huge experience in Formula 1 and continues to show huge amounts of potential on-track. For Alpine as a brand, he is a great ambassador and we therefore look forward to continuing our collaboration. While this is important for our future, we do have to keep our eyes close to what is coming and that is focusing on improving our current package. We have high ambitions this current season and we will work tirelessly to achieve those things. We will take our time in deciding Pierre’s team-mate and we are excited with the options we have on the table.
    Team Principal, Bruno Famin.

  • Alpine announce further team changes

    Flavio Briatore is making a return to Formula 1 in an official capacity after the Renault-backed Alpine team announced the Italian businessman as their new Executive Advisor.

    Briatore, 74, has long been connected with the sport, initially serving as Benetton’s team boss through the 1990s and achieving title success with Michael Schumacher.

    After a spell away, Briatore made a comeback when Renault took over the Enstone-based squad at the turn of the millennium, again overseeing the operation as their Team principal.
    Briatore added more titles with Fernando Alonso in the mid-noughties, before vacating his position in 2009 and taking some more time out of F1.

    Now via several other business ventures and activities, Briatore will embark on a fresh stint with ‘Team Enstone’ as he gets set to assist Renault chiefs in their quest to drive Alpine up the F1 grid.

    BWT Alpine F1 Team can confirm that Flavio Briatore has been appointed by Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo as his Executive Advisor for the Formula One Division. Predominantly focus on top level areas of the team. Scouting top talents and providing insights on the driver market, challenging the existing project by assessing the current structure and advising on some strategic matters within the sport.
    The team on the news.

  • Doohan to drive in FP1

    Alpine have announced that reserve driver, Jack Doohan will take Esteban Ocon’s place during Friday’s opening free practice session at the Canadian Grand Prix.

    Under the sport’s current regulations, each F1 team must run a rookie in two FP1 sessions each campaign.

    Doohan has made four practice appearances as an Alpine junior so far, getting his first experiences in Mexico and Abu Dhabi in 2022 and making further outings at the same venues in 2023.

    A former FIA Formula 3 runner-up and the third-placed driver in last year’s F2 standings, the Australian’s latest run comes as he pushes to secure a full-time seat with Alpine.

    Alpine announced on the eve of this weekend’s Montreal event that they will part ways with Esteban Ocon at the end of the current campaign, ending a five-year collaboration.
    It means that at least one seat is available at the Renault-backed operation for next season, with incumbent Pierre Gasly’s place beyond 2024 yet to be confirmed.

    In addition to his four FP1 outings, and simulator duties at Enstone, Doohan has completed several test sessions with Alpine over the last couple of years – the latest coming in their 2022-spec A522 at Zandvoort last month.

    Really excited to get out on track in Montreal for FP1. It will be my first time driving at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, which I am looking forward to.  I am grateful to the team for the opportunity to get more track time, and also familiarise myself with 2024 machinery early in the season. This will also help with the work I am doing in the simulator, particularly at the European rounds. My focus will be on doing the best for the team and maximising the session for both drivers, looking at certain test items and understanding the new track surface.
    Doohan on the news.