Franco Colapinto returns to Alpine after sabotage claims denied
Summary
Alpine confirmed Franco Colapinto’s return for a 2026 filming day at Silverstone, rejecting sabotage claims. Colapinto aims to close the gap to teammate Pierre Gasly before Miami and a Buenos Aires roadshow.
Alpine confirmed Argentine driver Franco Colapinto participated in a 2026‑spec filming day at Silverstone, the first time he's been back since the team dismissed sabotage rumors. The session readies him for the Miami Grand Prix and a Buenos Aires roadshow.
Why it matters:
- Sabotage rumors hurt morale; Alpine’s open letter reassures sponsors and defends Colapinto.
- Closing the gap to Pierre Gasly is vital for Alpine’s 2026 points fight.
- The filming day yields live data on the Mercedes‑powered A526, helping setup before upcoming races.
The details:
- Silverstone session on a damp Wednesday delivered ~30 laps, captured by on‑board cameras for sponsor footage.
- Alpine’s A526 uses a Mercedes engine; the team says Colapinto and Gasly have identical equipment except minor gearbox tweaks in China.
- Alpine’s open letter condemned online abuse, denied sabotage, and emphasized equal treatment for Colapinto.
What's next:
- Colapinto heads to Miami, aiming for quicker qualifying laps to narrow the gap with Gasly.
- Alpine will showcase the 2026 car at a Buenos Aires roadshow on April 26.
- The team joins Mercedes and McLaren for a two‑day Nürburgring tyre test, while Red Bull and Ferrari keep developing.
Original Article :https://www.planetf1.com/news/franco-colapinto-alpine-f1-2026-filming-day-sabota...