Mike Elliott has been appointed as the new chief technical officer (CTO) of Alpine’s Formula 1® team, marking a significant addition to the Enstone-based outfit’s technical leadership. This newly created role places Elliott in charge of overseeing all technical and engineering functions at Alpine’s factory.
The 52-year-old British engineer returns to Enstone, where he previously worked as principal aerodynamicist during the Renault and Lotus eras. Elliott’s career later took him to Mercedes, where he served as head of aerodynamics before advancing to technical director and then CTO. His tenure at Mercedes was marked by contributions to eight constructors’ and eight drivers’ championships, underscoring his extensive experience in the sport.
Alpine announced Elliott’s appointment on September 17, 2026, confirming that he will lead the team’s technical operations with current executive technical director David Sanchez reporting directly to him. The move comes as Alpine competes closely with Racing Bulls for fifth place in the constructors’ championship under the 2026 regulations, which also mark Alpine’s first season as a Mercedes customer team.
Elliott’s return to Enstone signals a reinforcement of Alpine’s technical structure as the team seeks to build on its promising start to the season. His previous experience at the factory and successful track record with Mercedes provide a strong foundation for his new responsibilities.
While Elliott’s impact on Alpine’s future performance remains to be seen, his appointment reflects the team’s commitment to strengthening its engineering capabilities. Pierre Gasly, Alpine’s driver mentioned in the announcement, continues to compete under the team’s banner as they navigate the evolving competitive landscape shaped by the 2026 regulations.
This development highlights the ongoing technical reshuffling within Formula 1®, with experienced personnel moving between teams to adapt to new challenges. Alpine’s decision to create the CTO role and entrust it to Elliott suggests a strategic approach to managing the complexities of modern Formula 1® car development and operations.
Overall, Mike Elliott’s appointment as Alpine’s chief technical officer adds a notable chapter to his career and represents a key organizational change for the team during a season of regulatory transition and competitive realignment.