Alpine reaches the 2026 weight limit while competitors face challenges.

      "The limit was not established by adding components."

      Alpine is reported to have achieved Formula 1's new 2026 minimum weight limit right from the start, marking a significant technical accomplishment following a troubled 2025 season. As per Auto Motor und Sport, Alpine's new A526 is already at the FIA-mandated minimum of 770 kilograms—a target that many in the paddock privately thought would be unattainable for most teams in the first year of the new regulations. The reduced limit, about 30kg lighter than last season, has been a key topic of discussion regarding the 2026 adjustments. Several teams are believed to be considerably overweight, with Williams skipping the entire Barcelona shakedown due to ongoing rumors of unsuccessful FIA crash tests and a weight surplus of up to 30kg.

      Williams team principal James Vowles had already cautioned late last year that the challenge would be significant. "It would be beneficial to learn from others about their current status, but I think most will be overweight," Vowles stated. "That’s simply the reality. It’s a very ambitious target, but it can be managed." Mercedes has voiced similar concerns, with chief engineer Andrew Shovlin noting that weight remains one of the main challenges in development. "The limit wasn’t established by adding up components; it was merely imposed," Shovlin commented. "Teams under previous regulations were initially 10 to 20kg over, which is expensive and complicates development. Our goal is to begin as close to the limit as we can."

      At Alpine, this achievement signals a proactive and aggressive focus on the 2026 project, especially after finishing last in 2025. Development of the A526 commenced in the summer of 2024, accompanied by a significant philosophical change and the decision to shift from Renault's works power to customer Mercedes engines. Advisor Flavio Briatore, who is now effectively leading the program, has made it clear that there is no more time for patience. "We're confident," Briatore told La Gazzetta dello Sport this week. "Every department head was given the freedom to pursue their vision—nobody mentioned needing more time. So, we either have a competitive car or we all have to go home."

      Technical director David Sanchez indicated that the A526 was designed with an emphasis on balance rather than merely seeking peak downforce figures. "We placed significant importance on drivability during development," Sanchez stated at the launch in Barcelona. "We aim to provide the drivers with a well-balanced car." "On paper, a high downforce measurement might suggest a good lap time, but that doesn't help you," he added. "You might only utilize it for one lap in qualifying, but not over the course of a race. It can also lead to quicker tyre degradation and the driver losing confidence."