Mercedes is reportedly in contention to gain another customer team in the near future after Alpine confirmed plans to shut down its engine operations following the 2025 season.

Renault’s F1 engine program, based in Viry-Châtillon, had failed to replicate its success in the Turbo Hybrid era, struggling to keep pace with its fellow competitors.

Recent leadership changes, along with Flavio Briatore’s hiring, had fueled speculation about the French manufacturer potentially shutting down its engine program.

Alpine confirmed the speculation on Monday, September 30, with a statement announcing that its F1 engine operations will continue until the end of 2025.

The Viry-Châtillon facility will then be transformed into the Hypertech Alpine Centre, retaining its employees. Meanwhile, the F1 team is reportedly in negotiations with Mercedes to secure an engine deal for 2026 and beyond.

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“Formula 1 activities at Viry, excluding the development of a new engine, will continue until the end of the 2025 season,” the statement read. [via motorsport.com]
“Following the consultation process and dialogue with the employee representatives at Viry-Châtillon, Alpine has decided to establish an F1 monitoring unit. This unit will aim to maintain employees’ knowledge and skills in this sport and remain at the forefront of innovation for Hypertech Alpine’s various projects.”
Following reports of Alpine’s plans to shut down its Viry operations, employees staged a protest during the opening day of the Italian GP, claiming the move was unjustified. Despite the planned closure, the French manufacturer has guaranteed continued employment for the existing staff.

Joining forces with Mercedes, F1’s most successful engine manufacturer since 2014, is a logical and cost-effective move for Alpine compared to running its own engine program. Having faced a power deficit against rivals throughout the Turbo Hybrid era, becoming a Mercedes customer team will offer the Enstone-based squad a more competitive and level playing field.

Alpine team principal comments on potential Mercedes deal
Recently appointed Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes commented on the team’s prospects of switching to another engine supplier. Oakes emphasized that the team’s priority is to equip the car with the best possible engine, while CEO Luca de Meo is actively seeking the most competitive supplier for the future.

“There are all the factors at play, but I guess at the end of the day you just want the best engine in the car, That’s a decision that I think Luca is evaluating at the moment,” he was quoted saying by motorsport.com
Mercedes has been the most successful engine manufacturer, with the factory team winning eight consecutive constructors titles between 2014 and 21. This season, its customer team McLaren is likely to clinch the title.

Mercedes is also set to lose Aston Martin after 2025 but has already inked a deal with McLaren and Williams for 2026 and beyond. Alpine is in negotiations with the German manufacturer to become its third customer.

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Edited by Pratham K Sharma