P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Steven Nielsen has offered a candid appraisal of Alpine’s campaign, but reinforced a message of hope ahead of the 2026 F1 season.
Alpine’s managing director Steve Nielsen admitted that Team Enstone is not achieving satisfactory results in this year’s F1 season and has already shifted focus to 2026 earlier than its competitors. The French team is currently at the bottom of the F1 constructors’ championship standings with only three races left. With 22 points, all earned by Pierre Gasly, Alpine is trailing by 40 points from ninth place, highlighting the struggles with the A525’s performance throughout the year. Alpine made the unconventional decision to become a Mercedes power unit customer in 2026, stepping away from being a works team to improve competitiveness. Nielsen acknowledged the challenging season and emphasized the team’s commitment to finishing the current season on a high note, despite the tough circumstances. Despite their current position, Alpine remains determined to secure more points finishes in the remaining races, with an understanding of the competitive landscape they are facing.
