Alpine Unveils 2026 F1 Car in Barcelona on January 23

Alpine Formula One Team has scheduled the unveiling of its 2026 challenger for January 23 in Barcelona, marking the start of a new era as the squad transitions to Mercedes power units. The event, set to begin at 12:30 local time, will feature the team's drivers and senior management and comes just three days before preseason testing begins at the nearby Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on January 26.

The Barcelona launch underscores Alpine's streamlined approach to the upcoming season, allowing the team to move directly from the reveal into initial installation laps during the behind-closed-doors test. This timing reflects a focus on efficiency after a challenging 2025 campaign, in which Alpine finished last in the Constructors' Championship with only 22 points, all scored by driver Pierre Gasly. The team has prioritized development of the 2026 car, known as the A526, amid significant regulatory changes including revised aerodynamics, active aero systems, and a restructured hybrid powertrain.

Central to Alpine's strategy is its decision to end its in-house engine program with Renault and become a customer team for Mercedes power units starting in 2026. Renault's engine facility in...