Shock at Alpine: Only two drivers left in the fight for 2026

Alpine’s 2026 driver lineup takes shape as Flavio Briatore eliminates external candidates from consideration. Franco Colapinto and Paul Aron emerge as the final contenders for the coveted seat alongside Pierre Gasly. The battle intensifies as both drivers showcase their credentials on track.

Alpine’s search for a second driver to partner Pierre Gasly in 2026 has reached its final phase, with executive advisor Flavio Briatore confirming that the decision will come down to two internal candidates. The team has ruled out pursuing external talent from the current Formula 1 grid or promoting drivers from Formula 2, focusing instead on evaluating Franco Colapinto and Paul Aron based on their recent performances and future potential.

Briatore’s strategic approach eliminates outside contenders

The Italian motorsport veteran has adopted a methodical approach to filling Alpine’s vacant cockpit, dismissing speculation about potential raids on other teams’ talent pools. Despite rumors linking Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda to Alpine if Red Bull releases them, Briatore remains unconvinced about available drivers on the current grid.

His assessment of Formula 2 proves equally critical, citing the championship’s unpredictable nature as a barrier to identifying genuine talent. “You see one guy winning a race, the next race he is 14th”, Briatore explained, contrasting this with the consistent dominance displayed by past champions like Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg during their junior careers.

The executive advisor’s philosophy centers on identifying drivers who demonstrate clear superiority over their peers, similar to how Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso stood out before their championship-winning campaigns. Current Formula 2 results fail to provide such clarity, with race winners frequently struggling in subsequent events, creating what Briatore describes as confusion rather than conviction.

Colapinto’s evolution from struggle to contention

Franco Colapinto’s journey with Alpine illustrates the challenges facing young drivers thrust into Formula 1’s demanding environment. Initially struggling to match Pierre Gasly’s pace, the Argentinian has gradually adapted to the team’s complex operations and engineering demands.

Briatore acknowledges the pressure facing rookies entering Formula 1, comparing Colapinto’s trajectory to other young drivers like Kimi Antonelli and Gabriel Bortoleto. The learning curve proves steep, with drivers needing multiple races to find their rhythm within teams employing thousands of personnel and managing enormous responsibilities.

Recent performances have shifted Briatore’s perception of Colapinto’s capabilities. The driver’s improved comfort level with Alpine’s car has translated into better results, demonstrating the progression expected from promising talent. This development places him in direct competition with Paul Aron for the 2026 seat, with both candidates bringing distinct strengths to their candidacy.

Aron builds momentum through practice sessions

Paul Aron has strengthened his position through impressive showings during Friday practice sessions, particularly his standout performance at Monza with Alpine. These opportunities, combined with previous appearances for Sauber at Silverstone and Budapest, have provided valuable insight into his capabilities at Formula 1 level.

The Estonian driver’s quick adaptation to different cars and environments has caught Briatore’s attention, adding weight to his candidacy. His performances demonstrate the technical skills and mental fortitude required to succeed in Formula 1’s demanding environment.

Briatore’s evaluation process focuses on several key factors :

• Performance consistency across different track conditions
• Adaptability to various car setups and engineering feedback
• Long-term development potential within Alpine’s structure
• Ability to handle pressure in competitive situations

Decision timeline reflects careful evaluation process

The Alpine executive advisor maintains that his choice between Colapinto and Aron will be based purely on merit, emphasizing his lack of personal management ties to either candidate. This neutral stance allows for an objective assessment focused entirely on Alpine’s competitive interests rather than external influences.

Briatore requires one or two additional races to finalize his evaluation, suggesting that both drivers remain under close scrutiny for their remaining opportunities. The decision will shape Alpine’s driver pairing for the 2026 season, when new technical regulations could provide opportunities for teams to challenge the current competitive hierarchy.

The choice between these two promising talents represents Alpine’s commitment to developing young drivers while maintaining competitive standards. Both Colapinto and Aron bring unique qualities that could benefit the team’s long-term ambitions in Formula 1’s evolving landscape.