Alpine top adviser Flavio Briatore has set clear expectations for Franco Colapinto on the eve of the Argentine’s first full F1 season. Despite a difficult 2025, in which the Argentine failed to score any points and was beaten by team-mate Pierre Gasly, confidence remains. According to Briatore, it’s time for the next step — starting with qualifying.
“Last year was Colapinto’s first year in Formula 1,” Briatore explained during Alpine’s season launch in Barcelona. “There were a lot of expectations, this and that. Not everything was handled well.” The top adviser sees a clear change in his driver heading into 2026. “This year you see Franco’s face — he’s much more mature. He’s no longer the kid from last year.” A sore point for Colapinto was qualifying, where he frequently ended up at the back of the field. In races he could match the pace of the more experienced Gasly, but he lacked the one-lap pace.
‘Everything that could be done’
According to Briatore, improving Colapinto’s qualifying pace was a top priority over the winter. “We spent a lot of time with him this winter,” he explained. “Franco’s biggest problem was qualifying, because in the race he was just as fast as Pierre (Gasly, ed.).” The Italian says it comes down to composure and confidence behind the wheel. “He simply had to drive the car and qualify on talent, not on emotion. In that regard he is still developing. We spent an enormous amount of time in the simulator and did everything possible.”
Colapinto backs that assessment and recognises 2026 as a pivotal year, especially now that Alpine arrives with a new power unit and stands to gain from the major regulation changes. “As a team there are no more excuses,” the young Argentinian added. “The engine has changed and the regulations have been adjusted. Now we have to get to work and deliver results. Last year we focused early on 2026, and now 2026 is here. It’s time to produce the results the team deserves.” He looks to the upcoming season with confidence. “Everyone has worked incredibly hard. Hopefully it’s a fast car. It looks good, hopefully it’s quick, and we can achieve the results we want.”
