The Alpine team has extended its collaboration with Franco Colapinto. Despite persistent exit rumors, the French announced on Friday that the Argentine will remain a permanent driver next year. Colapinto was called up in the spring to replace Jack Doohan, but has shown little since then. As Colapinto has not scored a single World Championship point in 2025, top advisor Flavio Briatore also looked at test and reserve driver Paul Aron.
With the extension of the collaboration with Colapinto, Alpine’s line-up for 2026 is complete. Pierre Gasly had already signed a long-term contract with the French racing stable. His Argentine teammate had to prove himself in recent months to the team management, including Flavio Briatore. The eccentric Italian had already let slip that he had to choose between Colapinto and Alpine junior and Formula 2 star Paul Aron for next year.
In the run-up to the São Paulo GP, the 22-year-old Argentine explained that he ignores all exit rumors and wants to look at the situation ‘race by race’. “I don’t know,” Colapinto shrugged. “I look at it all per race and try to focus on the weekend,” he explained in conversation with the media in Brazil. “São Paulo is just another race weekend, on a circuit and a place that I really enjoy. To race again in Brazil in Formula 1 is very special to me. I can’t wait to get on the track. I don’t think much about the future. I want to fully focus on this season and try to finish higher,” he added.
Motivation
When asked about the situation within Alpine, Colapinto explained that it can sometimes be challenging to stay motivated. The team is currently at the bottom of the standings and has been focusing on next year and the new technical regulations for some time. “We’re not in a good position right now,” he said. “We’re not performing as we would like or expect at this point in the year. It can sometimes be difficult to stay motivated and strong in this situation, but we manage to do so. That’s what I love most about this team – we keep pushing and pull ourselves through.”
Last year, Colapinto served on behalf of Williams during the São Paulo GP. It was a painful weekend for the young Argentine, who retired after multiple crashes in the thirtieth lap. This contributed to him not being included in the Red Bull ranks. “Last year was not easy for me and not as fun as I had hoped,” he reflected. “In the paddock and with the things that happened, it was quite difficult. So, I just want to have a good weekend – enjoy it with the fans,” he concluded. “I know they’ve done everything they can to come to Brazil.”
