Overview
- Alpine postponed its planned private debut of the A526 in Barcelona after reportedly not receiving key integration data from new power-unit supplier Mercedes, with software and configuration work cited by multiple outlets.
- The team has not announced a new date but intends to complete at least one private run before collective winter testing begins on January 26.
- Several manufacturers, including Audi, Ferrari and Honda, argue a Mercedes solution could exceed the 16:1 compression limit in real running despite passing static checks, pointing to Article C1.5 on compliance at all times.
- The FIA has not changed its current inspection methods that verify compression at ambient temperature, and a technical meeting is set for January 22 to address the rivals’ concerns.
- Franco Colapinto’s intense rain-soaked training video went viral as he prepares to rejoin Alpine at Enstone, with the team seeking a reset after finishing last in the 2025 Constructors’ Championship.