Franco Colapinto Retained by Alpine for 2026 Formula 1 Season

Franco Colapinto will remain with Alpine for the 2026 Formula 1 season, the team confirmed ahead of this weekend’s São Paulo Grand Prix.

The 22-year-old Argentine joined Alpine midway through the 2025 campaign, replacing Jack Doohan after just six rounds. Despite a difficult start, Colapinto’s steady improvement and growing consistency have convinced the Enstone-based team to keep him alongside Pierre Gasly for next year.

Although Colapinto remains the only driver on the current grid yet to score a world championship point, his performances have shown progress notably finishing ahead of Gasly in three of the last six races and cutting out the costly mistakes that marred the early part of his rookie season.

Briatore: “We Believe in Franco’s Potential”

Alpine’s executive advisor Flavio Briatore praised Colapinto’s perseverance and potential as the team confirmed the extension.

“I’ve been following Franco’s progress throughout his time in Formula 1 and I have always believed that he has the right attributes and potential to be a top driver who can grow with the team,” Briatore said.

“Our decision to continue together for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver. It has been a tough year for the whole team, and it hasn’t been the easiest scenario to perform in, however both Franco and Pierre have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season.

“With Pierre and Franco, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help drive the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer about next season.”

Colapinto: “A Huge Challenge, But I’m Proud”

Colapinto expressed his gratitude to Alpine for the faith they’ve shown in him, acknowledging the challenges he’s faced since his debut.

“I am very grateful to Flavio and the entire team for their belief in me to help drive the team forwards in the future,” Colapinto said.

“Ever since I made my Formula 1 debut, I knew it would be a huge challenge to keep my place in this sport. It has been a long and tough road, and I am very proud for the opportunity to drive with this team again in 2026, alongside Pierre, who has been a great teammate and someone I can continue to learn from.”

From Williams to Alpine — A Rapid Rise

Colapinto’s F1 journey has been a whirlwind. He made his debut late in the 2024 season with Williams, replacing Logan Sargeant for the final nine races. The Argentine impressed early, scoring points in two of his first four starts, but a string of crashes in the final rounds cooled interest from rival teams.

Alpine signed him in January 2025 on a multi-year deal, initially as a reserve driver, but speculation quickly grew that he would replace Doohan mid-season a move that materialized at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in May.

Initially confirmed for just five races, Colapinto’s stint was extended as his performances improved, despite setbacks such as a crash during the Hungarian test and another incident in Azerbaijan qualifying.

Popularity and Potential

While performance has been a key factor in Alpine’s decision, Colapinto’s immense popularity in Argentina and the sponsorship opportunities that come with it are also believed to have played a role.

“It is very special and timely to make this announcement here in Brazil,” Colapinto added. “Being so close to my home country and racing in front of so many fans who support me means a lot.

“Next year, when there’s a reset in Formula 1, we hope to give everyone who cheers for us something to celebrate.”

The 2026 Grid Takes Shape

Colapinto’s contract extension leaves just three seats unconfirmed for the 2026 season. Red Bull have yet to name a teammate for Max Verstappen, while both seats at Racing Bulls remain open.

For Alpine, the pairing of Gasly and Colapinto represents a blend of experience and youthful energy a partnership the team hopes can help them climb back toward the front as Formula 1 enters its next regulatory era.

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Written by

James Rees

A passionate motorsport journalist from Wales, with over 30 years of love for the sport. A dedicated father of three, working as a content manager, covering the fast-paced world of Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, Formula E, and IndyCar.

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