Alpine Conducts Secret Barcelona Test Ahead of A526 Launch

Alpine is wasting no time in its bid to recover from a dismal 2025 campaign, conducting a private TPC test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this Tuesday. With race drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto alongside reserve Paul Aron taking the wheel of the 2025 car, the team aims to sharpen operations before the official A526 launch this Friday.

Why it matters:

This session marks a critical reset for the Enstone-based outfit after finishing dead last in the Constructors' Championship. With a high-stakes switch to Mercedes power units for 2026 and a new driver lineup, Alpine needs every lap available to ensure their integration and operational procedures are flawless before the new regulations take effect.

The details:

• The Lineup: The test featured the full 2026 driver squad, with Gasly and Colapinto sharing duties with reserve driver Paul Aron to maximize data collection.
• The Purpose: Known as a "wake-up test," this running of the previous year's car is designed to reacclimatize drivers and staff to track procedures following the winter break, a strategy Alpine also utilized ahead of the 2025 season.
• The Timeline: The new A526, featuring Mercedes power, launches on January 23, just three days before the first official pre-season test begins at the same venue on January 26.
• 2025 Context: The team finished 9th with only 22 points, 58 points behind Sauber, prompting a radical change in philosophy and engine supply.

Looking Ahead:

Pierre Gasly has already set high expectations for the season, suggesting the Mercedes power unit could finally give him a car capable of showcasing his true talent. As the team prepares for the official shakedown, all eyes will be on whether the technical overhaul can translate into a return to the midfield fight.