The possibility that Alpine could say goodbye to Renault engines in 2026 is becoming increasingly concrete. The French team is exploring new scenarios for its future, considering a change radical. Although Renault is currently working on a new engine for 2026, concerns over the high costs and feasibility of the project have prompted Alpine to begin talks with other engine suppliers.
Alpine abandons Renault engines in 2026? The motivations
Internal sources reveal that Renault is seriously considering the option of withdrawing as an engine supplier to Formula 1. If this decision is confirmed, the move would allow the group to save considerable financial resources, which could be redirected towards other internal projects. However, staff currently employed in the F1 engine department are not expected to suffer any negative consequences, as there are plans for them to be transferred to other divisions within the Renault group.
For Formula 1, the loss of Renault as an engine supplier would represent a significant disappointment. With the entry of Audi and Red Bull Powertrains/Ford in 2026, the number of suppliers would rise to six, but Renault's possible exit would bring the number back to five. This scenario would see half of the teams on the grid become customers, further reducing the variety of engines available.
Alpine as customer team in 2026: the options
If Alpine fails to close a deal with a new supplier by a certain date, F1 rules would still guarantee the team a supply of engines. According to the regulation, if Alpine fails to reach an agreement by May 15, 2025, a manufacturer that currently supplies fewer teams would be obliged to supply engines to Alpine. This scenario sees Honda and Audi as main candidates, given that both manufacturers will provide only one team in 2026. However, Audi, being a new manufacturer, may not be obliged to supply engines immediately.
The situation leaves Alpine with several options to explore. In addition to talks with Honda and Audi, Ferrari and Red Bull Powertrains could be considered as possible suppliers, although the chances of a deal with the latter are relatively low. Mercedes, which currently supplies engines to three teams, could become a realistic choice if one of its current customer teams switches to another supplier. Uncertainty over the team's future also includes speculation about a possible name change, should Alpine be sold.
Renault's decision to abandon the engine project for 2026 could mark a turning point for the French team with the hope that Alpine can find an internal solution or conclude a deal with a new engine supplier, thus ensuring continuity and success of the team in the coming seasons.
Source: RacingNews365
