P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes has explained why the French squad opted for Mercedes power units over rival options, as it transitions from a works operation to a customer team for the 2026 F1 season.
Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes, explained the rationale behind the team’s decision to transition from being a full works outfit to becoming a Mercedes power unit customer. Under the Renault banner, Alpine has decided to close its engine operation in Viry-Châtillon by the end of the year due to challenges in competitiveness. The team aims to reallocate resources and acquire a higher-performing power unit to propel them to the front of Formula 1. By partnering with Mercedes, Alpine is preparing for a new era in F1 regulations starting in 2026. Oakes believes that choosing Mercedes as a supplier aligns with the team’s goal to reach the benchmark set by the German manufacturer. The team’s strategic move mirrors successful transitions made by Williams, McLaren, and Aston Martin in recent years. Oakes emphasized that being supplied by Mercedes offers Alpine an opportunity to benchmark themselves against the best in the sport.
