Alpine have retained Franco Colapinto for the 2026 Formula One season.
Colapinto’s renewal comes after he completed for the team in the last 14 rounds following Alpine’s decision to swap him and Jack Doohan, who had begun the season in the second race seat whilst Colapinto had been reserve driver.
Following improvements in performance post summer break, Alpine have opted to retain the 22-year-old Argentinean with Team Principal – Flavio Briatore confident that Colapinto can build on his progress with the driver “very grateful” for the renewed belief for next season.
Colapinto previously drove for Williams in the second half of last season but iterated that he knew that he had to fight to be on the grid, so is happy to get a proper full season with Alpine next year alongside Pierre Gasly.
“Ever since I made my Formula One debut, I knew, given the circumstances at play, it would be a huge challenge to keep my place in this sport.
“It has been a long and tough road, and I am very proud for the opportunity to drive with this team again in 2026, alongside Pierre, who has been a great team-mate and will undoubtedly be someone I can continue to learn from.”
Colapinto also welcomed the timing of the announcement at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend as he added: “Finally, it is very special and timely to make this announcement here in Brazil this weekend.
“Being so close to my home country of Argentina and an event that feels like a home race for me where I have so much support.
“To have so many fans on this journey with me and the team is why we go racing and next year, when there should be a reset in Formula One, we can hopefully give every single person who cheers for us something to truly smile and celebrate.”
Briatore added that he believes that Colapinto “… has the right attributes and potential to be a top driver who can grow with the team. Our decision to continue together for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver.”
The Italian also acknowledged that Colapinto hasn’t had the fairest circumstances this season to deliver results due to the team’s performance, but is hopeful that they can improve in 2026.
“It has been a tough year for the whole team, and it hasn’t been the easiest scenario to perform in, however both Franco and Pierre have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season.
“With the line-up of Pierre and Franco, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help drive the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer and shout about next season.”
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