Alpine ramps up 2026 WEC preparations with Portimao test

Alpine Endurance Team's pre-season preparations continued last week with a successful test at the Portimao circuit in Portugal with its 2026-spec A424 Hypercar.

Les Blues put the updated LMDh prototype through its paces with Ferdinand Habsburg, Frédéric Makowiecki and team newcomer Victor Martins. The car has received aero updates to the front and rear for the forthcoming season to counter the issues the team faced in generating enough downforce to get into the aero window and compete at the sharp end regularly. Its latest run in the off-season saw the team complete 1,250 kilometers (776 miles) "without incident" in dry conditions, utilizing Michelin's new 2026 tires.

"These tests were an important step as it was our first full session with the new package, with our upgrades on the A424 and the Michelin Pilot Sport Endurance 2026 tires," said Philippe Sinault, the team principal.

"The weather was favorable, and we had a full day of dry weather to complete all our program. Frédéric Makowiecki, Ferdinand Habsburg and Victor Martins were there for this first real working session, focused on aerodynamics, mechanics and, above all, discovering and getting the best from the tires.

"Particular attention was also paid to Victor's integration, with driving time allowing him to get to know the car in different conditions, including at night. We gathered a wealth of information that we are now analyzing in detail, with a specific focus on the new tires. We will aim to confirm our initial findings during our next session at Motorland Aragón at the end of February. These tests were productive, and the initial feedback is quite positive for the 2026 season."

2022 FIA Formula 3 champion Martins, a previous member of the Alpine Driver Academy, is making the switch to endurance racing after three seasons in FIA Formula 2. He said he was impressed by the car's downforce and power during the test.

"I really enjoyed seeing the precision it requires, especially under braking and at corner entries," he said. "Obviously, I need a bit of time to adapt, with a lot to learn about the different systems, but the work we did was very positive. Ferdinand and Frédéric shared their experience with me to help me settle in quickly, improve and get up to speed.

"The team is extremely professional, with real passion and high ambitions for the project. It gives me extra motivation, and I can't wait to continue working with them, whether on the simulator or on track, to be fully prepared for the first race in Qatar."

2026 looks set to be a critical season for Alpine's Hypercar team, amid reports that the brand's single-seater and endurance racing programs are currently under major pressure to perform.

Last season had a number of high moments, including a surprise victory in the FIA WEC's historic 100th race at Fuji Speedway in Japan.

"We have a good foundation on which to refine our package and optimize our use of the different tire compounds," said Bruno Famin, Alpine Vice President of Motorsport.

"The first feedback is encouraging as we look ahead to our third season in the top-flight category. Our goal is clear: we want to keep improving our performance level to consistently battle at the sharp end of a more competitive field than ever."

Alpine Endurance Team will unveil the livery of its A424 cars and the composition of its crews at a launch ceremony at the Atelier Alpine Paris on Wednesday, 18 February. It is also due to test later this month at Motorland Aragon ahead of the FIA WEC Prologue in Qatar in March.