Overview
- Franco Colapinto said he was told after the Mexico Grand Prix that his 2026 Alpine seat was finalized, describing the confirmation as a relief.
- Alpine’s post-Brazil graphic highlighting Gasly’s two points versus Colapinto’s zero triggered online backlash and rebukes from figures like Juan Cruz Álvarez, while Williams shared a supportive post featuring Alex Albon with Colapinto.
- Pierre Gasly voiced optimism for next year, citing extra wind-tunnel time from finishing last in 2025 and a Mercedes power unit he expects to be the benchmark, noting extensive simulator work on the A526.
- Steve Nielsen praised Colapinto’s progress and said Alpine deliberately shifted resources to 2026, adding the team aims to give him a much better car to show his potential.
- Alpine’s driver structure for the transition is taking shape with Paul Aron retained as reserve for 2026, as Colapinto closes out the season with races in Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.