Overview

• After setup changes and a long stop in the garage, Colapinto’s A525 failed to respond and he ended FP3 last on the timesheet at Zandvoort.
• The setback followed a standout FP2 on Friday in which he was ninth, his best practice result with Alpine, after opening the day 18th in FP1.
• Colapinto said FP2 felt like “a good step” and noted a sudden jump in grip, while identifying slow corners as a key weakness to address.
• Briatore said Colapinto’s performance is not what he expected and suggested the 22‑year‑old might need another year or two before being ready for F1.
• Williams boss James Vowles defended the driver, arguing reduced pressure unlocks performance and citing Colapinto’s strong first outing at Silverstone in 2024.