Alpine's 2026 F1 Driver Search Narrows to Two Internal Candidates

Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore has revealed that the team's search for a second Formula 1 driver for 2026, alongside the recently extended Pierre Gasly, has been narrowed down to two internal candidates: Franco Colapinto and Paul Aron. Briatore stated that he sees no viable external options on the current F1 grid or in Formula 2 who sufficiently stand out.

Why it matters:

This internal focus signals Alpine's commitment to nurturing its own talent pool for future F1 contention, a shift from potentially seeking established names or F2 standouts. For Colapinto and Aron, it presents a golden opportunity to secure a coveted F1 seat, placing significant pressure on their upcoming performances to impress the Alpine management.

The Details:

• Internal Battle: Flavio Briatore confirmed to The Race that the decision is a direct contest between Franco Colapinto and Paul Aron.
• No External Interest: Briatore dismissed current F1 free agents and F2 drivers, citing a lack of compelling talent outside Alpine's system.
  • He emphasized that no one on the current F1 grid available is a 'viable alternative candidate'.
  • In F2, he finds the results too inconsistent to identify truly outstanding talent, unlike in previous eras with drivers like Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso, or Lewis Hamilton.
• Performance-Based Decision: Briatore stressed that the choice would be based purely on performance and potential, denying any personal management ties influencing the selection.
  • "My only interest is to try to take in the team the best driver available and do the best job with us. It is as simple as that."
• Colapinto's Progress: Initially, Briatore was unconvinced by Colapinto's early performances. However, recent races have shown significant improvement as the Argentine driver has grown more comfortable with the car and the team environment.
• Aron's Credentials: Reserve driver Paul Aron has boosted his standing with strong FP1 outings for Alpine at Monza, following previous appearances for Sauber at the British and Hungarian GPs.
• Evaluation Period: Briatore indicated he needs "another one or two races to see" before making a final decision, suggesting the battle is still very much active.

Between the lines:

Briatore's comments on the lack of standout talent, particularly in F2, offer a critical perspective on the current junior formula landscape. He drew comparisons to the undeniable dominance of past champions in their respective junior categories, implying that today's F2 field lacks such clear indicators of future F1 greatness. This viewpoint underscores Alpine's reluctance to take a risk on unproven external talent when their own academy drivers are showing promising development.

What's next:

The coming races will be crucial for both Colapinto and Aron as they vie for the single remaining seat. Their performances will be under intense scrutiny from Briatore and the Alpine team. The final decision, expected after a few more evaluation races, will shape Alpine's driver lineup for the 2026 season and signal the direction of their long-term F1 strategy.