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Alpine confirmed over the weekend that Franco Colapinto will stay with the French team for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Argentinian has yet to score a point since joining the team, but Alpine’s management says the decision reflects his growing confidence and steady progress.
Colapinto’s best finish so far came at Zandvoort, where he placed eleventh. Statistically, he has the weakest average results of all 21 drivers to start a Grand Prix this year, but Alpine believes his recent improvement justifies another season.
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Colapinto Is Getting Faster
Team principal Steve Nielsen told Sky Sports that Colapinto has shown clear development: “Formula 1 is a challenge for every newcomer. Some adapt quickly, others need more time.
Colapinto drove for Williams last year, but to be honest, he struggled early this season. Fortunately, he has been improving step by step.”
“We’re lucky to have Pierre Gasly as a kind of benchmark — an experienced driver. Gradually, Colapinto managed to match him more closely. At times, he was even quicker. That’s what earned him another year with us,” Nielsen explained.
Financial Support Also a Factor
“You can’t ignore the financial aspect, of course,” Nielsen added. “It plays a role, but above all we see Colapinto as a genuine talent. The fact that he brings sponsorship money is just a welcome bonus.”
Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore also praised the young driver in an interview with F1.com. “It’s tough for young guys to handle the pressure from sponsors and the team straight away,” he said. “Our car isn’t very competitive and it’s difficult to drive. Colapinto was a bit lost at the start, he needed three or four races to settle in. Compare him to his early outings and you’ll see a completely different driver now.”
“He’s Much More Self-Assured”
“He’s much more confident, more committed to the technical side, and does everything he can to perform,” Briatore continued. “He’s spending a lot of time understanding the car. The last two or three Grands Prix weren’t great for the team overall, but Colapinto himself was excellent.”
The Argentinian finished fifteenth in Brazil — an average result by his own standards, but a sign that Alpine’s faith in his progress might be paying off.
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