Alpine is not currently going through the most positive or stable period in Formula 1. The decision made back in 2024 to abandon the Renault power unit in favor of switching to Mercedes engines had already caused significant unrest and internal tension within the Viry-Châtillon environment. It was a difficult and controversial choice, one that was followed by a deeply disappointing and frustrating 2025 season, marked by underperformance and uncertainty about the team’s long-term direction.
However, the move to Mercedes power units now appears to be delivering some early benefits, at least in the opening stages of the 2026 Formula 1 season. The A526 has shown encouraging signs of competitiveness, and during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, despite an incident involving Franco Colapinto — who made contact with Esteban Ocon’s Haas roughly one-third into the race — Alpine still managed to bring both cars home in the points, a result that suggests a step forward compared to previous struggles.
Having access to Mercedes’ highly competitive power unit brings clear performance advantages, but it may soon lead to further developments beyond the technical partnership. Last week, team principal Flavio Briatore revealed that one of Alpine’s major shareholders, Otro Capital, is preparing to sell its entire stake in the team, which amounts to 24%. According to the latest reports, a potential buyer has already emerged: Mercedes.
Such a move would represent a significant shift in the team’s ownership structure, potentially strengthening the relationship between Alpine and the Stuttgart-based manufacturer even further. While Toto Wolff’s direct involvement has reportedly been ruled out, the presence of Mercedes within the team’s shareholder structure could act as a form of stability and reassurance for Alpine’s long-term ambitions of returning to the front of the grid.
Alpine identity at risk with Mercedes? Flavio Briatore not concerned
One of the main concerns surrounding a possible acquisition would be the risk of Mercedes influencing the strategic direction of the team, potentially imposing new guidelines or altering Alpine’s identity. The fear, for some observers, is that financial involvement could eventually translate into operational control or a dilution of the team’s unique characteristics.
Flavio Briatore, however, appears completely unconcerned about this scenario. In comments reported by GPBlog.com, the Italian manager made it clear that the structure of the shareholding would prevent any such outcome.
“Mercedes is looking to acquire the 24% currently held by Otro. Within a company, it is the majority shareholder — the one with 75% — that makes the decisions. Usually, whoever owns 25% is just a passenger.”
According to Flavio Briatore’s perspective, even if Mercedes were to complete the acquisition, it would not have the authority to dictate the team’s direction, leaving Alpine’s identity and operational independence intact. Instead, the deal could provide financial support and technical synergy without introducing significant risks.
For Alpine, therefore, this potential development could represent an opportunity rather than a threat — a chance to strengthen its position in Formula 1 while maintaining control over its own future.
The potential entry of Mercedes into Alpine’s ownership structure represents a strategic move to solidify a partnership that is already bearing fruit on the track. For Alpine, having the financial and technical backing of a giant like Mercedes could be the final piece of the puzzle in their quest to return to the front of the grid. While purists may worry about the “Merc-ification” of the Enstone team, Falvio Briatore’s message is clear: the French brand remains in the driver’s seat.
Based on the content of these recent boardroom developments, the 2026 season is proving to be a year of massive transition for Alpine. It remains to be seen if this injection of Mercedes influence will eventually lead to a more formal “B-team” relationship or if Alpine can maintain its status as a proud, independent constructor while utilizing German power.
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