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Colapinto Targets Alpine 2026 Seat as Singapore Opens Three‑Race Audition

Alpine has set an end‑of‑October deadline for its 2026 lineup, putting Colapinto under a three‑race evaluation starting in Singapore.

Overview

  • The Singapore Grand Prix will be Colapinto’s 21st Formula 1 start, matching the Argentine appearance mark held by Oscar Larrauri and Gastón Mazzacane.
  • Alpine’s second 2026 seat will be decided by late October, with Colapinto competing directly against reserve Paul Aron as Pierre Gasly remains contracted through 2028.
  • Alpine has shifted resources to its Mercedes‑powered 2026 project and curtailed 2025 upgrades, contributing to the A525’s lack of competitiveness this season.
  • Colapinto is the only current driver yet to score points in 2025, and Flavio Briatore’s criteria for retaining him include avoiding costly incidents, staying close to Gasly and showing improvement.
  • Facing Marina Bay’s extreme heat and humidity with forecasts indicating possible rain, Colapinto undertook heat‑specific training in preparation for one of the calendar’s most physically demanding races.