Alpine signs Jason Somerville as deputy technical director after FIA exit

Alpine has confirmed the appointment of former FIA aerodynamic chief Jason Somerville as its new deputy technical director, a move aimed at sustaining the team's upward trajectory after a difficult 2025 campaign.

Having finished last in the 2025 constructors' standings, Alpine has rebounded strongly in 2026, sitting fifth with 23 points after four races. Somerville, who previously worked at Enstone during the Renault era (2010-11) and later at Williams and Formula One Management, was instrumental in shaping the current ground-effect regulations during his FIA tenure.

Why it matters:

Somerville's return reunites him with key figures Flavio Briatore and Steve Nielsen, both of whom rejoined Alpine last year after similar stints at the FIA. His deep knowledge of the regulatory framework and aerodynamics could help Alpine close the gap to the front of the midfield and challenge for regular points finishes.

The details:

• Somerville will report to executive technical director David Sanchez, starting immediately.
• He played a key role in drafting the 2022 ground-effect rules and subsequent updates during his time as FIA head of aerodynamics.
• Alpine is also reportedly in talks with luxury fashion brand Gucci over a title sponsorship deal for 2027, as current partner BWT's contract nears expiration.

What's next:

Alpine's technical growth under Sanchez and now Somerville will be critical as the team aims to build on its promising start. With the 2026 regulations still evolving, Somerville's regulatory expertise could prove vital in the development race.

“Adding Jason to our technical team will allow us to take even further steps to better our performance,” said Sanchez. Somerville himself added: “I’m relishing the opportunity to be back in the thick of it, hunting milliseconds and fighting our rivals.”