Formula 1 may be in a break period, but it is far from a real shutdown. Teams are continuing to maximise every opportunity available to run their 2026-spec machinery. Mercedes and McLaren recently benefited from Pirelli testing at the Nürburgring earlier in the week, focusing on the development of the 2027 slick tyres, while Ferrari completed running at Fiorano to evaluate wet-weather tyre evolution.
Yesterday, it was Alpine’s turn, as the Enstone-based team chose Silverstone for its second permitted filming day under the regulations. The team called up Franco Colapinto to complete the 200 kilometres allowed by the FIA for commercial filming purposes. However, as is often the case in Formula 1, teams use these sessions not only for marketing but also to test solutions that will later be introduced at the Miami Grand Prix when the season resumes on May 3.
Flavio Briatore selected the Argentine driver for this test, with the understanding that he is the one who most needs mileage and preparation, especially as Pierre Gasly has been showing strong form recently.
Alpine, meanwhile, is enjoying a positive period, sitting fifth in the Constructors’ Championship level on points with Red Bull. A major step forward has been achieved thanks to the Mercedes power unit supply, but like other Mercedes customer teams such as McLaren and Williams, Alpine is still working to optimise energy management systems to unlock further performance gains.
The running at Silverstone was particularly valuable for evaluating the Miami upgrade package, which includes developments in both internal combustion engine software and hybrid energy deployment systems.
Silverstone itself is considered a demanding circuit in terms of energy recovery, placing significant stress on battery management and ranking among the more challenging tracks in the midfield group. The upcoming Miami weekend, after the long break, is expected to provide a clearer picture of the competitive order before the ADUO regulations unlock further development opportunities for turbo V6 engines, which the FIA is expected to authorise after Monaco.
This strategic test at Silverstone highlights Alpine’s commitment to refining their technical package mid-season. By giving Franco Colapinto more experience behind the wheel and fine-tuning their energy deployment, the team is positioning itself to capitalize on the unique demands of the Miami street circuit. As the 2026 season continues to evolve, these small software adjustments could prove decisive in the fight for championship points.
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