Alpine has confirmed that there haven’t been any discussions with Andretti about a potential engine deal since Formula 1 rejected Andretti’s entry for the 2025/26 season. Initially, Andretti had a tentative agreement with Alpine to use their engines until their own Cadillac power unit, part of a collaboration with General Motors, was ready in 2028. However, this arrangement expired last summer, well before Andretti’s entry was approved by the FIA in October. Alpine’s team boss, Bruno Famin, acknowledged that talks could restart if Formula 1 officially accepted Andretti into the competition.
Formula 1 recently rejected Andretti’s entry but left open the possibility for 2028. Famin stated that Renault, Alpine’s parent company, wouldn’t consider negotiations with Andretti regarding an engine deal until Andretti’s entry into the sport was solidified.
Famin explained, “We had an agreement in principle, but nothing progressed. However, this was contingent on Andretti securing their entry, which they haven’t done yet. Since Formula 1 has responded, our discussions have ceased.”
Acquiring an engine is just one aspect of Andretti’s ongoing efforts to join Formula 1. Expanding the grid to accommodate 11 teams has raised concerns among existing teams about the division of prize money. There are doubts about the financial feasibility of admitting new teams, as well as questions about the value Andretti would bring to the championship, including the recognition of the Andretti name.
Famin, addressing the issue at Alpine’s A524 launch, echoed Formula 1’s concerns about the significance of new entrants. He stated, “Our stance remains the same; we welcome an 11th team if they genuinely enhance the championship. Formula 1 and the commercial rights holder evaluate the value of each project. We respect their decisions. If Formula 1 determines that an 11th team would greatly benefit the championship, we would support that decision.”