Mercedes engine powered up by F1 rival as new era begins

Alpine has fired up its F1 power unit for the first time ahead of the 2026 season as it commences a new era.

Just over one year ago, Renault confirmed it would cease its power unit construction project at the end of the 2025 campaign.

For the sport's technical regulation reset for the year ahead, it has struck a partnership with Mercedes, who will continue to supply four teams - including its works squad - during the years ahead.

Alpine endured a miserable campaign in 2025 and ended the season at the bottom of the constructors' championship.

The Enstone-based squad opted early on to focus its development on the 2026 challenger in the hope that it can start the new season on the front foot.

Alpine will conduct a season launch, which will include its 2026 livery, on January 15.

With the car due to hit the track for the first time at the end of the month, Alpine has now shared audio of the challenger being fired up.

Listen to the audio below!