Alpine has finalized its driver line-up for 2026, confirming that Franco Colapinto will retain his race seat alongside Pierre Gasly for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Colapinto was appointed as reserve driver by Alpine forward of this season, changing Jack Doohan after the Miami Grand Prix in Might. Regardless of a troublesome begin, his efficiency improved in comparison with Gasly within the second half of the season, and Alpine has confirmed that the Argentine will race once more in 2026.
Government advisor Flavio Briatore stated: “I’ve adopted Franco’s improvement all through System 1 and have at all times believed that he has the proper qualities and potential to develop into a high driver who can develop with the group.” “Our determination to proceed our cooperation in 2026 clearly demonstrates our dedication and powerful assist to Franco as he develops as a race driver.
“This yr has been a troublesome yr for the entire group and it hasn’t been the best situation to carry out. Nonetheless, Franco and Pierre have accomplished their finest to place the group in the very best place for subsequent season. With Pierre and Franco within the lineup, we have now mix of expertise, pace and expertise that may assist take the group ahead and hopefully give our followers one thing to cheer and shout about subsequent season.”
The announcement, made at 10:43 a.m. native time and likewise incorporating the numbers of each drivers, got here closest to Colapinto’s residence race in Brazil. Alpine additionally famous that the date 11/7/25 may also be added to Colapinto’s driver quantity 43.
“I’m very grateful to Flavio and the whole group for believing in me to take the group ahead sooner or later,” Colapinto stated. “From the second I made my debut in F1, I knew it will be an enormous problem to take care of my place within the sport given the present scenario.
“It has been a protracted and troublesome journey, however I’m very proud to have the chance to drive with this group once more in 2026, alongside Pierre, who is a superb teammate and who I’ll little question proceed to study from.
“Lastly, it’s extremely particular and well timed to make this announcement right here in Brazil this weekend. Being so near my residence nation of Argentina, there’s a lot assist and it is like a house race for me. Having so many followers be a part of me and the group on this journey is why we’re racing. Subsequent yr, when System 1 is meant to be reset, I hope we can provide everybody who helps us one thing to have a good time with a giant smile on their faces.” Let’s go Takayama! “
Colapinto’s affirmation signifies that the one two seats left undecided for subsequent season are the Pink Bull Drive and Racing Bull seats alongside Max Verstappen, and all current seats confirmed up to now will stay unchanged for 2026.
