Franco Colapinto’s days at Alpine appear to be numbered following his crash last week during Pirelli’s tyre test at the Hungaroring. His management is already exploring other options, including in the WEC and the IndyCar Series, according to sources.
After his sensational debut at Williams as a replacement for the dismissed crash-prone Logan Sargeant, Franco Colapinto was immediately hailed as a rising star. In his first appearances, he not only scored World Championship points but also won many hearts, particularly in his home country of Argentina. Sponsors were lining up to support the first Argentine driver since Carlos Reutemann in 1982. However, his career did not continue at the British racing team, which opted for Carlos Sainz. Alpine’s advisor Flavio Briatore quickly brought Colapinto and the sponsorship millions on board for a role as a reserve driver.
At the French racing team, the newcomer had to wait six races before he could replace Jack Doohan. Colapinto has not been able to meet expectations up to the summer break, a total of eight GPs. He caused a lot of damage, was no match for teammate Pierre Gasly, and scored – just like Doohan – no World Championship points. The Argentine has been under scrutiny from Alpine’s management for some time. The timing of the (significant) crash during Pirelli’s tyre test in Hungary last week, which left the driver with painful complaints, was also unfortunate. The tyre supplier even publicly blamed Colapinto in a press release. The crash, Pirelli judged, had ‘nothing to do with the new tyres’.
Several drivers have since knocked on Alpine’s door, which is currently last in the constructors’ championship. Among them is Jack Doohan, who has never ruled out a return. If Colapinto has to leave Alpine, there are opportunities for the Argentine in the WEC (World Endurance Championship) and the IndyCar Series. His management is reportedly already exploring these options.
