Alpine confirmed on Friday that Franco Colapinto will be a full-time driver in Formula 1 2026 alongside Pierre Gasly. The Argentine had an intense weekend at the Brazilian Grand Prix, finishing 16th in practice and in the Sprint race qualification. Despite a mixed performance, Colapinto said the session was complicated.
The Alpine team announced on Friday, November 7, 2025, ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix, that Franco Colapinto will continue as a full-time driver in the 2026 Formula 1 season, partnering Pierre Gasly for the second consecutive year. The decision followed weeks of analysis by the management, recognizing that the Argentine met the objectives set since his entry in May this year. Steve Nielsen, the team director, explained that the renewal stems from a long-term sporting project, with Flavio Briatore highlighting the confidence placed in Colapinto.
At Interlagos, host of the 21st round of the season, Colapinto took part in the single free practice, finishing 16th with a best lap time of 1:11.385 on medium tires, half a second behind Gasly, who placed 7th. Later, in the Sprint race qualification at 15:30 Argentina time, the Argentine did not advance beyond Q1, posting 1:10.441 and ending 16th, eliminated in the final minute after an initial strong lap of 1:11.077. Gasly reached 13th, while Lando Norris (McLaren) took pole with the fastest time.
Colapinto assessed his performance: “It was complicated.” The full classification featured Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) in 2nd and Oscar Piastri (McLaren) in 3rd. The main GP will run on Sunday, November 9, at 14:00 Argentina time, with 71 laps and 306 km at Interlagos. However, the Meteorological Service forecasts intense rains and winds for Saturday, which could disrupt the Sprint race at 11:00 and the main qualification at 15:00, potentially affecting the event.
The confirmation sparked euphoria among fans, with nods from Alpine engineers and support from Briatore, who justified the decision due to the driver's potential. For 2026, an improved car is expected to boost the team's performance, currently in a problematic cycle.
