Alpine Retains Franco Colapinto for 2026, Citing Performance Gains

Overview

• Alpine confirmed Colapinto will partner Pierre Gasly next season after a mid-season promotion that initially proved challenging.
• Managing director Steve Nielsen said the call was driven by talent, acknowledging finances cannot be ignored but were not decisive.
• The team considered a wide pool of drivers before committing, with recent form showing Colapinto matching or beating Gasly at times.
• Williams chief James Vowles praised the Argentine’s turnaround and said he earned the seat with his performances.
• Alpine’s 2026 shift includes Mercedes power units and Gasly’s deal through at least 2028, while a report of Colapinto being signed to 2029 remains unconfirmed.