In the official press release, we learn what we already knew, namely that BWT Alpine Formula One Team (Enstone) would use an engine from Mercedes, aka Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains. But the contours of this agreement remained to be clarified. We now know that the agreement covers not only the powertrain, but also the gearboxes.
The agreement begins from the 2026 season and covers at least 5 seasons, and undoubtedly beyond. Alpine specifies that this is for the duration of the new regulatory era. Probably ten years like the current one, in place since 2014.
Alpine will therefore concentrate on its sole role as chassis creator at Enstone. Financially, it is also a way to seriously save since the engine budget, although capped, will be increased from 95 to 130 million dollars from 2026. This is in addition to the team's budget. Except that as a customer, the bill drops to 15 million euros per year.
A hell of a financial difference, and too bad for the history of the brand. After all, McLaren demonstrates once again that even a customer team can win, the constructor's title and be ahead of the official team.
BWT Alpine Formula One Team, Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains and Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix have entered into powertrain and gearbox agreements starting with the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship season.
With this multi-year agreement, Mercedes-Benz will supply powertrains to BWT Alpine Formula One Team for the duration of the new regulatory era, from 2026 until at least 2030. In addition to the powertrain, BWT Alpine Formula One Team will also have Mercedes gearboxes from the 2026 season.
The team remains determined to deliver the best performances during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
To summarize
Alpine will be supplied by Mercedes from the 2026 season, both for engines, but also for gearboxes. A paradigm shift that transforms Enstone into a pure customer team. A 180° turn compared to Renault's history in F1, undoubtedly dictated by purely financial reasons.
