P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine chief Flavio Briatore says confidence-boosting early signs with new engine supplier Mercedes are exactly why he demanded the squad make the switch
Alpine’s chief Flavio Briatore demanded the switch to new Formula 1 engine supplier Mercedes due to confidence-boosting early signs. Renault’s decision to transition to Mercedes as a customer squad for 2026 faced heavy criticism from their engine staff, but could aid in improving Alpine’s track performance after a challenging previous season. The successful shakedown of Alpine’s A526 at Silverstone, completing 140km trouble-free, marked a significant step forward for the team. Briatore highlighted the unusual smooth running of the car and power unit, signaling positive progress for Alpine. Briatore emphasized that the shift to Mercedes as the sole engine choice was vital to bring Alpine closer to the front of the grid, showcasing a strong partnership with Mercedes. The reliability demonstrated by both Alpine and Mercedes in early testing bodes well for the upcoming season, setting a promising tone for the collaboration.
