Mar.2 (GMM) Alpine is pursuing a noticeably different solution to Formula 1’s new active rear wing regulations – a bold move following the team’s disastrous 2025 campaign.
While most of the grid has adopted a conventional system that simply “opens” rear wing elements on the straights to reduce drag, Alpine’s AMR26 instead uses a folding concept, with the wing elements effectively collapsing in straight-line mode.
Team principal Steve Nielsen admitted the approach carries risk precisely because no other team has chosen it.
“Of course,” he said when asked if the unique direction makes the team nervous. “It would probably be better to answer that later in the season. But when you’ve had a year like we had last year, you hold on to what you learned.”
Alpine endured a bruising 2025 season, prompting a reset in philosophy under the new active aero era, which replaces DRS with a fully integrated drag-reduction system affecting both front and rear wings.
Nielsen insisted that different does not automatically mean wrong.
“Just because something is unusual doesn’t mean it’s wrong,” he said. “It’s an obvious difference – but whether it’s a good or bad direction, who nkows.”
The Enstone based outfit is not locked into the concept, however. Nielsen confirmed the team is closely studying rival solutions.
“We evaluate everything, absolutely everything, including what we see on other cars. If we see something, we model it and try to reproduce it.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES