The new 2026 Hypercar from Alpine finally hit the track last week at the sunny Portimão circuit in Portugal. A long-awaited moment that marks the beginning of the season for the French team, ready to challenge the giants of the World Endurance Championship.
A Return to the Podiums
The Alpine team begins its third season in the top category of the WEC, following a spectacular return in 2024. Indeed, the drivers of car n°36 managed to reach two podiums at the 6 Hours of Imola and Spa 2025, while car n°35 triumphed at the 6 Hours of Fuji, during the series’ hundredth race. These performances highlight Alpine’s ambitions, presenting itself as a serious contender in a more competitive field than ever.
Ambitions for 2026
The team’s ambitions for this season are clear. Bruno Famin, the director of Alpine Motorsport, does not hide his expectations: “We want to continue to improve our performance level in order to regularly compete at the front.” These words resonate as a call to battle, confirming that the team is not just there to participate but aims for victory.
The First Test: A Success on All Fronts
During this first test, the Hypercar covered 1,250 kilometers, driven by a talented trio: Frédéric Makowiecki, Ferdinand Habsburg, and rookie Victor Martins. The latter, just coming off his season in Formula 2, had the opportunity to rediscover the subtleties of the Hypercar after a first contact with the LMDh during the rookie tests in Bahrain in 2025.
Makowiecki expressed his enthusiasm by stating: “It was a real pleasure to be back on track with the whole team. For the first time, we were able to run with the 2026 package to understand it in more detail.” With such motivation, it is clear that the team is preparing to meet all the challenges that will come their way.
An Unprecedented Experience for Victor Martins
For Victor Martins, getting back behind the wheel of the Alpine A424 was a very special moment. “I was impressed by the car’s performance, particularly in terms of aerodynamic downforce and power. I had a lot of fun seeing the precision it requires, especially under braking and entering corners.” His words reflect an enriching experience, a quick adaptation to a machine that leaves no room for improvisation.
He also highlighted the support from his teammates, stating: “The work done was very positive. Ferdinand and Frédéric brought me their experience to accelerate my integration.” With such team spirit, Alpine seems to have found the recipe for success.
Clear Objectives and Challenges Ahead
Philippe Sinault, director of the Alpine Endurance Team, specified the objectives of this first shakedown. “These tests were an important step as it was our first complete session with the new package, incorporating the developments made to the A424, but also the Michelin Pilot Sport Endurance 2026.” The weather conditions were favorable, allowing the team to enjoy a full dry day to carry out their program.
The drivers focused their work on crucial elements such as aerodynamics and the integration of the new tires. “Particular attention was also paid to Victor’s integration,” added Sinault. The goal is clear: to prepare every team member to be operational from the first race in Qatar.
Next Steps Before the Season Begins
Before the start of the 2026 WEC season, scheduled for March 22 and 23 in Qatar, Alpine will return to the track at the end of February for another test at Motorland Aragón. Fans are also eagerly awaiting the reveal of the 2026 livery, which will be unveiled on February 18. This promises to be a memorable moment for motorsport enthusiasts, at the dawn of a new era for the team.
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The Alpine n°36 during the 8 Hours of Bahrain 2025.
Victor Martins in the A524 during the Rookie Tests in Bahrain 2025.
