Mercedes has just entered a new historic era among F1 engine manufacturers. The brand even matches Renault in this domain.
By winning its twelfth F1 engine manufacturer title, Mercedes equals Renault, a name long celebrated in engine history. Behind this equality lies a major shift of power that could reshape the future of the paddock.
Mercedes, now equal to Renault in F1 engine history
Mercedes secured its twelfth engine manufacturer title thanks to McLaren’s performances this season. The three-pointed star brand now joins Renault in the record books, just behind Ferrari’s all-time record of sixteen titles. This achievement confirms Mercedes’ technical dominance, which now powers three big F1 teams.
Why this title matters for the German brand
Since 2014, Mercedes engines have symbolized the absolute benchmark in Formula 1. The partnership with McLaren has paid off once again. This delivers the British team a second consecutive constructors’ title.
This shared success also highlights the reliability of German power units. Mercedes engines can rival Ferrari’s power and Honda’s efficiency. And it proves that the brand remains indispensable in the F1 engine hierarchy.
Why Renault’s legacy still matters
Renault long dominated F1 engine manufacturing with Williams, Benetton, and Red Bull. Its twelve titles reflect an era when French innovation shook the paddock. However, the end of Renault’s engine program in 2025 marks the close of an era. It then leaves Mercedes to carry the torch of European performance.
Why Alpine is switching from Renault to Mercedes ?
The announcement surprised everyone: from 2026, Alpine will use Mercedes engines. This strategic change aims to restore competitiveness to the French team, which never fully reached its potential under Renault. It also underscores the trust in Mercedes’ F1 engine expertise.
Reasons behind this radical decision
Alpine executives admitted that Renault engines lagged in power and reliability compared to competitors. Disappointing results led to a major restructuring, supervised by Flavio Briatore, who returns as an executive advisor. By choosing Mercedes, Alpine bets on stability and performance.
The impact of this partnership for Mercedes in F1 engine rankings
The Alpine–Mercedes contract runs until 2030. And that also includes the option to design a proprietary gearbox by 2027. Alpine can focus on aerodynamics and race strategy, while Mercedes strengthens its position as an indispensable supplier.
The end of a historic rivalry between Mercedes and Renault?
This symbolic equality closes a chapter spanning decades. Both brands clashed across circuits while defending their vision of performance. Now, with Mercedes’ rise, the futures of the two F1 engine manufacturers are more intertwined than opposed.
Does this equality change the championship dynamics?
Yes. Mercedes is no longer just a dominant constructor, it has become the benchmark among engine manufacturers. Supplying McLaren, Williams, and soon Alpine, Stuttgart directly influences the F1 hierarchy. This technical and political power could redefine balances in Formula 1 from 2026 onward.
Can Renault come back as F1 engine manufacturer with Mercedes?
Nothing is impossible, but in the short term, Renault’s engine program withdrawal makes a return unlikely. Renault now focuses its resources on Alpine as a high-performing customer team. If results follow, this partnership could become the most successful Franco-German alliance in F1 history.