Argentine driver Franco Colapinto finished a career-best seventh in the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix on May 3, securing six points for Alpine in the 2026 season. Starting from his P8 qualifying position, he gained one spot after Charles Leclerc received a 20-second penalty.
Starting P8 from Saturday's qualifying at Miami International Circuit (race advanced to 14:00 Argentina time due to thunderstorms), Colapinto gained seventh off the line despite a stewards' investigation into contact with Lewis Hamilton, which was dropped. Hamilton noted post-race: "I lost a lot of performance."
Over 57 laps, he climbed as high as fourth on lap 29 amid pit stops and light rain, while teammate Pierre Gasly retired early (lap 6) after flipping in a collision with Liam Lawson, triggering a safety car.
Crossing the line provisionally P8 (4 points), Colapinto was promoted to P7 (6 points) after Leclerc's final-lap spin penalty, bringing his 2026 total to seven points following P10 in China. Alpine director Flavio Briatore praised: “Franco has completed an excellent week, performing at the level we expect every weekend.”
Colapinto celebrated on social media, dedicating the result to spectator Lionel Messi: “We have to bring him to all the races!” Kimi Antonelli won for Mercedes, ahead of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Next: Canadian GP, May 22-24.
