Driver market: Formula 1 gives signals about the continuity of Franco Colapinto in Alpine

He Alpine team faces a difficult seasonlocated in last place in the Constructors’ Championship with only 20 points, all added by his teammate Pierre Gasly. However, the team’s focus is already on 2026, the year in which technical regulations will change and they will use Mercedes engines, which could mark a new beginning. In this context, the decision on the second seat together with Gasly, who has already renewed his contract until 2028is taken calmly, but with a clear inclination towards the Argentine pilot.

Formula 1’s support for Franco Colapinto amid Alpine’s doubts

Barretto’s article highlights that, although Colapinto has not yet scored points this season, his performance in the last few races shows a significant improvement compared to his teammate. The journalist points out that “The only real way to evaluate a driver’s performance is by comparing it to that of his teammate”and in this aspect, the Argentine has managed to surpass Gasly in the last four races (Netherlands, Italy, Azerbaijan and Singapore) with an average advantage of 0.122 seconds in the qualifying sessions.

The main Alpine team, Steve Nielsenacknowledged this evolution: “I think we have seen that he has stabilized and calmed down a bit. He has already taken Pierre’s measure in the last two or three races, so he is at his level, which is good.” Although the general balance in classifications still favors Gasly for 7-5in the last four dates the Argentine has an advantage of 3-1. In racing, the result is 2-2 in the last events, with Colapinto achieving the best result in the Netherlands (11th place).

The support not only comes from the performance on the track, but also from its financial contribution to the team, a key factor in Formula 1. Barretto concludes that, if the driver maintains this level, “There will be little reason to change anything by 2026”.

Who competes with Franco Colapinto for the second Alpine seat

The only internal competitor that Colapinto has for the seat is Paul Arona 21-year-old Estonian driver who currently plays the reserve role in the team. Aron, who finished third in Formula 2 in 2023had limited opportunities in Formula 1 this year, taking part in some free practice sessions with Sauber and Alpine. However, his lack of experience in official races puts him at a disadvantage compared to the Argentine.

The article rule out the possibility about what Jack Doohanwho ran the first six races of the season as a replacement, will return to racing as inside sources suggest he is “unlikely” his return. Therefore, the dispute boils down to a hand in hand between Colapinto and Aronalthough the first has a clear advantage due to his recent career and his adaptation to the team.

Why Alpine has not yet confirmed Colapinto for the 2026 season

Although the signs are positive for Colapinto, Alpine prefers wait until the end of the season to announce his decision. This is because the team is focused on the development of the new car for 2026which will include regulatory changes and the use of Mercedes engines, a combination that they hope will catapult them into more competitive positions.

The team’s executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, mentioned in August that the decision “it’s a little far away”although he recognized the Argentine’s improvement. Meanwhile, Colapinto continues to prove his worth on the track, hoping that his consistency in recent races, especially in the United States GPfinish convincing the team. Confirmation could come in the near future, possibly in Mexico (October 26) or Brazil (November 9)where the presence of Latin American sponsors could add an extra incentive for the advertisement.