Franco Colapinto Robbed During F1 Summer Break in Italy

Alpine driver Franco Colapinto was robbed while holidaying at Italy's Lake Como during the F1 summer break, with thieves taking personal items including his clothes and mate kit. The 23-year-old Argentine voiced his frustration on social media in a since-deleted post that drew backlash, before adopting a more resigned tone in a follow-up message.

Why it matters:

The incident continues an unsettling pattern of high-profile robberies targeting Formula 1 personalities in Italy. For Colapinto, the distraction comes at an awkward moment after a significantly improved first half of the 2026 season with Alpine.

The details:

• Colapinto was staying at Lake Como when the theft happened last week. Among the stolen goods were his clothes and a kit for preparing mate, the traditional South American tea.
• Social Media Reaction: In an initial now-deleted post, Colapinto wrote, "Who would have thought that Italians would steal everything from a Latino," reportedly drawing angry responses after comparing safety in Italy and Argentina. He later amended the wording to "Europeans" before removing the post entirely.
• Follow-up: He subsequently shared pre-theft photos with the caption: "Last photos of these clothes, mate, etc. I hope those who've snapped them up enjoy them!!" The post garnered over 700,000 likes on Instagram.
• Recurring Problem: Colapinto joins a growing list of F1 drivers targeted in Italy. Charles Leclerc had his watch stolen ahead of the 2022 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, while Carlos Sainz chased down thieves after the 2023 Italian Grand Prix.

What's next:

Colapinto must refocus for next weekend's Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, where Alpine sits sixth in the constructors' standings, five points behind Racing Bulls. Having scored points in six of the opening 11 races, including a career-best sixth in Canada, the Argentine will aim to put the incident behind him and sustain his mid-season momentum.