Alpine has revealed the livery for its 2026 Formula 1 car during a launch event on a cruise ship off the Catalan coast. The Enstone-based team, partnering with MSC Cruises, showcased a design blending blue and pink hues ahead of the new technical regulations. Drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto expressed optimism for the season following a challenging 2025.
Alpine's season launch took place on Friday at 12:30pm CET aboard the MSC World Europa, celebrating the team's partnership with MSC Cruises. The event unveiled the livery for the A526, which features the team's signature blue accented by pink from title sponsor BWT, similar to previous designs.
The A526, designed under executive technical director David Sanchez, underwent a shakedown at Silverstone on Wednesday before the pre-season test in Barcelona from January 26-30. Sanchez highlighted the car's adaptations to 2026 regulations: "The car is shorter and narrower than recent years with some aerodynamic freedom to explore. We have the return of active aero where we have the ability to have movable front and rear wings... The reduction in downforce and drag is expected to bring better racing."
Alpine ended 2025 in 10th place in the constructors' championship with 22 points, having halted development of the A525 in May to focus on the new era. The team switches to Mercedes-AMG power units, increasing electric power and introducing 100% sustainable fuels, along with modes like overtake, boost, and recharge.
Executive advisor Flavio Briatore emphasized no excuses this year: "I promise everybody that this season will be fantastic... We have a brand new car and we have the same drivers." Lead driver Pierre Gasly, committed long-term, said: "I’m very optimistic with the potential we can display." Franco Colapinto, in his first full F1 season, noted: "For the first time in my career, I have had a proper off-season... There are new tricks and new challenges to learn."
With managing director Steve Nielsen and Briatore leading, Alpine aims to rebound, targeting sixth in the standings amid the regulatory reset.
