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Colapinto Opens Defining Month in Singapore as Alpine Sets Late‑October 2026 Seat Call

The Marina Bay weekend begins a month expected to influence Alpine’s second‑seat choice for 2026 under a strategy centered on next year’s technical reset.

Overview

  • Franco Colapinto has arrived for the Singapore Grand Prix, his 21st F1 start, which ties the Argentine record held by Oscar Larrauri and Gastón Mazzacane.
  • Alpine will announce its 2026 second driver by the end of October, with Pierre Gasly signed through 2028 and reserve Paul Aron the primary rival for the seat.
  • Colapinto remains without points in 2025 but has recently shown pace closer to Gasly as Alpine evaluates drivers while running an unmodified A525.
  • Under new leadership, Alpine has shifted resources to develop its 2026 car, emphasizing long‑term performance over in‑season upgrades this year.
  • Marina Bay’s heat and humidity prompted Colapinto to complete specific heat training, and forecasts point to high temperatures and possible rain that could shape strategy.