In their quest for the top, Les Bleus enter their third campaign with the ambition to cement their place among the leaders. The off-season has been used to develop targeted upgrades to the A424.
Last week, the Alpine A424 returned to the track at Portimão for its first laps in its 2026 specification. Ferdinand Habsburg, Frédéric Makowiecki and Victor Martins were on hand with a programme focused on these developments and the new Michelin Pilot Sport Endurance 2026 tyres.
These tests also marked an essential step in Victor Martins' integration into Alpine Endurance Team. After his maiden outing at the 2024 Rookies Tests, the Frenchman got to experience the A424 in true endurance racing conditions, including night-time running.
Held in dry conditions, the team covered 1,250 kilometres without incident. All the information collected is now being analysed ahead of the next session at the end of February at Motorland Aragón, followed by the FIA WEC Prologue at the Lusail International Circuit on 22 and 23 March.
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.
Quotes
Ferdinand Habsburg
"It was fantastic to get back behind the wheel and start working with our 2026 package. After our maiden win together, the team's motivation is higher than ever. These tests were important to build strong foundations and gain a better understanding of the car and the new tyres. The team spirit is excellent, and I can't wait to kick it off in Qatar!"
Frédéric Makowiecki
"It was great to get back on track, all together with the whole team. We were able to run the 2026 package for the first time and understand it a bit better. These tests were very productive, and we worked hard to collect good information, including tyre data. The analysis begins now to identify new ideas to optimize our package. I am proud of the commitment shown by every single member of the team, let’s keep working like this!”
Victor Martins
"It was a very special moment to get back behind the wheel of the Alpine A424 and discover Portimão. I was particularly impressed by the car's aerodynamic downforce and power. I really enjoyed seeing the precision it requires, especially under braking and at corner entries. 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."
Philippe Sinault, Team Principal Alpine Endurance Team
"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 tyres. The weather was favourable, and we had a full day of dry weather to complete all our programme. 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 tyres. 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. In total, we covered 1,250 kilometres, gathering a wealth of information that we are now analysing in detail, with a specific focus on the new tyres. 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."
Bruno Famin, Alpine Vice President of Motorsport
"This first session materialised the work done by Alpine Endurance Team to upgrade the A424. We have a good foundation on which to refine our package and optimise our use of the different tyre compounds. The first feedbacks are 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."
