P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes Formula 1 Team Principal all but confirmed discussions have been held with Alpine regarding a power unit supply deal in 2026. Reports emerged last month that Alpine had plans to scrap its Viry F1 power unit operation for 2026 and seek out a customer engine deal for the new regulations instead. “And about the […]
Reports surfaced last month that Alpine was considering abandoning its Viry F1 power unit operation for 2026 and pursuing a customer engine deal for the new regulations. Alpine Team Principal Bruno Famin refrained from commenting on the rumors during the Spanish Grand Prix press conference, showing respect for the team in Viry working on the project. However, Mercedes’ Team Principal Toto Wolff confirmed during the British Grand Prix that talks had indeed taken place between Mercedes and Alpine. Brown from McLaren expressed positivity towards Alpine potentially becoming a Mercedes engine customer, emphasizing the benefits of such a partnership. Williams Team Principal Vowles highlighted the challenge Alpine would face in catching up with other teams if they joined Mercedes as the fourth customer for the 2026 power unit. All parties involved stressed the importance of timing and strategic decision-making for Alpine before committing to any partnership.
