Franco Colapinto is set to take part in his first full Formula 1 campaign in 2026, with Alpine giving him a new contract for the upcoming season.
Colapinto graduated to F1 from the Williams Racing Driver Academy last year after an underperforming Logan Sargeant was dropped by the Grove-based outfit, but he was released to Alpine by Williams in January following the latter’s signing of Carlos Sainz alongside Alex Albon.
Alpine signed Colapinto “on a multi-year deal” with a reserve role for 2025, and the 22-year-old was promoted to a race seat when Jack Doohan was demoted following an underwhelming, point-less six opening grands prix.
Colapinto has failed to score too, in stark contrast with team-mate Gasly’s 20-point tally (including 13 since the Argentine took over).
As he did at Williams, Colapinto has shown inconsistent glimpses of speed. He has outqualified Gasly on five occasions – four on merit – but crashed out twice. Lately, as Alpine slumped down the pecking order, the youngster got closer to the Frenchman’s performance on Sundays; over the past five races, they always finished within four seconds of one another.
As rumours swelled over Colapinto’s future, with Paul Aron – one of the team’s other reserve drivers – a contender for his seat, Alpine has now confirmed the Argentinian racer will retain his drive in 2026.
“I've been following Franco's progress throughout his time in Formula 1 and I have always believed that he has the right attributes and potential to be a top driver who can grow with the team,” executive advisor Flavio Briatore said. “Our decision to continue together for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver.
“It has been a tough year for the whole team, and it hasn't been the easiest scenario to perform in, however both Franco and Pierre have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season.
“With the line-up of Pierre and Franco, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help drive the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer and shout about next season.”
Colapinto added that he never underestimated the challenge that F1 represents.
“Ever since I made my Formula 1 debut, I knew, given the circumstances at play, it would be a huge challenge to keep my place in this sport,” he admitted.
“It has been a long and tough road, and I am very proud for the opportunity to drive with this team again in 2026, alongside Pierre, who has been a great team-mate and will undoubtedly be someone I can continue to learn from.”
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