As we prepare for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, I’ve never felt more ready to go racing.

The build-up has been a totally new experience for me, as for the first time in my Formula One career, I’ve been able to complete a full winter programme with the team.

I’m pleased to have finished testing on a positive note, with a busy final day in Bahrain where we completed 120 laps. In total, I covered 1,905km across the two weeks of official testing, and it was great to accumulate that level of mileage. It’s been invaluable preparation ahead of the first race, especially as we continue learning about the cars built to the new regulations.

Adapting to a new era

The A526 is very different to last year’s car. We have new tools, new systems and a new power unit, which brings a different philosophy in terms of driving style. The way we deploy energy, approach each lap, recharge, and balance performance is something we’ve been refining throughout the 352 laps I completed in the two Bahrain tests.

With less downforce, the car can slide more, and the power delivery has changed significantly. The battery element of the power unit now delivers 350kW of energy to the rear wheels, compared to 120kW last year. While DRS is no longer part of the rules, we have other tools available, such as Boost Mode, Overtake Mode and active aerodynamics. Overtaking will certainly feel different, but with the cars being smaller and narrower, that should help on certain tracks.

There is still a lot to learn and understand, and we’re only at the beginning of that process. But I’m optimistic this new era will be exciting for both drivers and fans and I can’t wait to get racing.

Shaping up for 2026

Over the winter, I’ve spent a lot of time in the gym preparing for the new season. Having now started 26 Grands Prix, I feel more experienced and have a clearer understanding of what it takes to progress as both a driver and professional athlete. I’ve worked hard physically and mentally, focusing on every detail to ensure I’m ready.

What I’m most looking forward to this year is helping develop the car over the course of a full season together with Pierre. Even from the Barcelona shakedown to the end of the second Bahrain test, we’ve already started making improvements. Last year, much of the focus was on preparing for 2026. Now that the car is on-track and evolving, it’s incredibly exciting to be part of that journey.

It’s also a testament to the hard work taking place at Enstone. When a new car runs for the first time, it’s a very special moment. There are so many long days and nights behind that first lap — hours of effort that people outside the team never see. When you witness the dedication in the factory as the car takes to the track, you realise just how much it means. Experiencing that with Alpine for the first time was very special.

This year will be a long season, but the objective is clear: to perform strongly and deliver consistent results. Last year was about laying the foundations for this moment. Now it’s here, it’s time to deliver the results the team deserves, and I truly believe we’re ready to take that step forward.

See you in Melbourne,

Franco