Alpine team boss Flavio Briatore has expressed disappointment with Franco Colapinto's performance, indicating that the young driver has not met expectations since joining the team.
Why it matters: Alpine invested significantly to acquire Colapinto from Williams, replacing Jack Doohan. However, Colapinto's current lack of points and low standing raise serious questions about his long-term future with the team, particularly for the crucial 2026 season.
The big picture:
- Colapinto has yet to score a single point in eight races this season, placing him ahead of only Doohan in the standings.
- Briatore's comments signal a lack of confidence, suggesting Colapinto might have been brought into Formula 1 too soon.
- The initial five-race deadline given to Colapinto passed without any official confirmation from Alpine regarding his continued stay.
What Briatore said: When asked about Colapinto's prospects for a 2026 seat, Briatore stated:
- "I’m not happy when I look at the result. What is important is the result. Is really not, not what I expected from Colapinto."
- He added that the current F1 cars – heavy and quick – are difficult for young drivers, suggesting Colapinto "needed another one year [away] to be part of Formula 1."
- Briatore also acknowledged putting "too much pressure" on Colapinto, making it hard for him to compete with an experienced teammate like Pierre Gasly.
- He reflected on the team's potential mistake in underestimating the "human part" of young drivers, who need time to adapt.
What's next: With Briatore's clear dissatisfaction, Alpine is likely evaluating other options for 2026. Rumours have already linked drivers like Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas, announced Cadillac drivers, to potential Alpine seats. Colapinto will need a significant turnaround in performance to secure his position.