Colapinto Defies Team Orders, Overtakes Gasly at US Grand Prix

Alpine's rookie driver Franco Colapinto defied team orders at the US Grand Prix, overtaking teammate Pierre Gasly in a late-race maneuver that has drawn the ire of the team. Running far outside the points, Colapinto ignored instructions to hold position, arguing Gasly was 'slow' and making a bold move in Turn 1, a decision Alpine management has vowed to 'deal with internally'.

Why it matters:

This incident highlights the tension between team strategy and a driver's raw racing instinct, especially for a rookie like Colapinto who is fighting for his F1 future. While Alpine's management views it as a breach of protocol, it also raises questions about the utility of team orders when cars are out of contention for points, potentially impacting driver morale and the team's public image.

The Details:

• The Incident: Towards the end of the US Grand Prix, with both Alpine cars in 16th and 17th positions and well out of the points, the pit wall instructed Colapinto not to attack Gasly and to hold positions.
• Colapinto's Reaction: The 21-year-old rookie immediately pushed back on the radio, exclaiming, "Wait what?! Hold positions?! But he's slow," before executing an overtake on Gasly into Turn 1.
• Gasly's Situation: Gasly, who had pitted early for soft tires on Lap 27, was reportedly struggling with fading grip when Colapinto made his move.
• Team's Rationale: Alpine's managing director Steve Nielsen explained the team order was issued to manage fuel and mitigate risk as the leaders were approaching to lap them.
• Colapinto's Defense: After the race, Colapinto defended his actions, stating, "At the end, I had slightly fresher tyres than Pierre and saw Gabriel [Bortoleto] attacking. I wanted to keep him behind both of us."
• Management's Stance: Nielsen expressed disappointment, stating, "As a team, any instruction made by the pit wall is final and today we are disappointed that this didn't happen, so it's something we will review and deal with internally."

Between the lines:

Colapinto's bold move, though a clear disobedience, might also be seen as a strategic gamble for his career. With his seat for 2026 reportedly between himself and Paul Aron, demonstrating aggression and racecraft could be an attempt to impress. His recent performance has quietly improved, out-qualifying Gasly in four of the last five races, despite Alpine's overall struggles at the back of the Constructors' standings.

What's next:

The 'internal matter' within Alpine will likely involve discussions with Colapinto regarding the importance of adhering to team instructions. While the immediate consequences are unclear, this incident could be a defining moment for the young driver, testing the balance between team loyalty and individual ambition as he vies for a long-term future in Formula 1.