Alpine Confirms Franco Colapinto to Partner Pierre Gasly for 2026 F1 Season

Alpine has officially confirmed Franco Colapinto will join Pierre Gasly as its driver lineup for the 2026 Formula 1 season, putting an end to months of speculation surrounding the team's future.

Why it matters:

This announcement brings much-needed stability to Alpine's driver roster ahead of the significant regulatory changes in 2026. Securing both drivers for the long term allows the team to focus on development and strategy, crucial for navigating the new era of F1 and aiming for improved competitiveness.

The details:

• Driver Lineup Confirmed: Franco Colapinto will partner Pierre Gasly for the 2026 season.
• Gasly's Extension: Pierre Gasly had already signed a multi-year extension earlier this year.
• Colapinto's Journey: Colapinto's confirmation for 2026 is a continuation of a multi-year agreement made in January. He moved to Alpine after completing the second half of the 2024 season with Williams, where his best result was eighth.
• Mid-Season Promotion: The 22-year-old was promoted to a full-time Alpine seat this year after the Miami Grand Prix, replacing Jack Doohan.
• Team Statement: Alpine stated that Colapinto's confirmation ensures "stability and continuity for the 2026 season, which presents a new opportunity and fresh start for the team in a new regulation era."
• Performance and Development: Since his competitive debut for Alpine at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in May, Colapinto has shown "promise and potential with gradual improvement across the season" and developed a "positive relationship with the team and engineers."

The big picture:

Alpine, after a period of uncertainty and internal changes, is looking to rebuild and re-establish itself as a competitive force in Formula 1. Securing a stable driver lineup with both experience in Gasly and emerging talent in Colapinto, particularly before the 2026 regulation overhaul, signals a strategic move to ensure continuity and maximize development efforts.

What's next:

With the driver lineup now settled, Alpine can fully concentrate on the development of its 2026 power unit and chassis under the new regulations. The pairing of Gasly and Colapinto will be critical in providing consistent feedback and guiding the team through what promises to be a transformative period for the sport.