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Formula 1’s Shift to Hybrid Power: Alpine Voices Support for Future Regulations
The landscape of Formula 1 is set to undergo significant changes in 2026 with the introduction of new regulations. Though the anticipated rollout of hybrid engines faced uncertainty amid discussions about a potential return to V10 engines, Alpine has expressed its endorsement of F1’s commitment to hybrid technology after a period of widespread speculation in the paddock.
The upcoming regulations are aimed at producing smaller and lighter cars, incorporating active aerodynamics and new power units that split power equally between internal combustion engines and hybrid components. This transition aligns with Formula 1’s broader goals of sustainability and performance enhancement.
Recent comments from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem had cast doubt on the hybrid-focused direction of the sport, as he suggested exploring various powertrain options, including a nostalgic return to the V10 engines, which could utilize sustainable fuels to align with F1’s environmental aspirations.
However, following a meeting with F1’s engine suppliers, there appears to be clarity regarding the future direction. Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes conveyed that the confirmation of hybrid power remaining central to F1’s future was welcomed and viewed as the appropriate decision for the sport’s evolution.
“For us as a team, we’re pleased it’s clarified, and we can now proceed normally with our preparations for 2026,” Oakes stated to the media after the Bahrain Grand Prix. “The past few weeks had been somewhat distracting with various discussions about our direction, so it’s good to have certainty.”
He further emphasized the value of the work that has been put into developing the upcoming regulations, citing the significant investment made by power unit manufacturers. “It’s definitely the right choice to continue down this path,” he commented.
During the recent meeting with the 2026 engine suppliers, it was reconfirmed that hybrid power will factor into any forthcoming discussions, effectively closing the door on a revival of the V10 engines that last competed in the series over three decades ago. Nonetheless, conversations surrounding the future of F1 powertrains will persist as the sport evaluates what its engine regulations might entail for 2031 and beyond.
“We appreciate that these discussions are happening for the future as well,” Oakes noted. “We’re engaged with both chassis developments and power unit strategies, trusting our partnership with Mercedes to advance our performance.”
As Alpine approaches the final season of functioning as a full works team, it is transitioning to Mercedes power for the 2024 season. This collaboration will place Alpine among the ranks of four teams utilizing the Mercedes power unit, as Aston Martin shifts to Honda engines.
In light of their current season, Oakes remains optimistic, particularly following Pierre Gasly’s commendable performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, where he secured the team’s inaugural points with a seventh-place finish. “We believe we have a solid car, and while this is a transitional year, we trust in our team’s strategic direction to continue scoring points,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, Alpine aims to build on this momentum as they prepare for the upcoming race in Saudi Arabia, which is set to begin with the opening practice session at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
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