Alpine Driver Drama Heads for 2026 Resolution

Franco Colapinto is set to continue as an Alpine Formula 1 race driver in 2026, with a formal announcement potentially coming as early as this week ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix. This decision follows weeks of improved performance from Colapinto since the summer break, coupled with strong Latin American backing, including Alpine sponsor Mercado Libre.

Why it matters:

After a turbulent 18 months marked by a significant upheaval in management, a slump in on-track performance, and major driver changes, securing Colapinto alongside Pierre Gasly for Alpine's new era as a Mercedes engine customer brings much-needed stability. This continuity is vital as the team sacrifices the current season to maximize its preparation for the new 2026 regulations, aiming for a significant gain next year.

The Details:

• Colapinto's Turnaround: Despite initial struggles and public criticism from Flavio Briatore earlier this year, Colapinto's performance has significantly improved post-summer break. He has matched Gasly in three out of the last six events, a marked improvement from the two times he out-qualified or out-finished Gasly in the eight events prior to the break.
• Securing the Seat: Colapinto's improved form, combined with strong Latin American sponsorship, has solidified his position. An announcement is expected before the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he will likely garner significant support from Argentina.
• Briatore's Strategy: Briatore's earlier critical remarks about Colapinto's promotion and performance, while seemingly harsh, may have been a calculated move to motivate the driver and secure further financial backing. The strategy appears to have paid off.
• Rival Outpaced: In Mexico's FP1, Colapinto outperformed Paul Aron, his closest rival for the 2026 seat. Despite Aron's respectable performance on a challenging track, the half-second gap highlighted Colapinto's legitimate reference pace for Alpine.
• Team Turmoil: Alpine has faced extensive internal changes, including the return of Flavio Briatore, the cancellation of Renault's works F1 engine program, and the exits of Esteban Ocon, Jack Doohan, and key personnel like Oli Oakes and Luca de Meo.

What's next:

Colapinto's confirmation will officially end Jack Doohan's hopes for an F1 race return with Alpine. While Doohan remains Alpine's reserve driver, he is exploring other racing programs and potential F1 test/reserve roles with teams like Cadillac, Williams, Haas, and Sauber for 2027. The ideal scenario for Doohan would involve combining an F1 test role with a full racing program, such as Japan's Super Formula series, to avoid another compromised year out of full-time competition.