Available seats in Formula 1 for 2026 are running out, but Alpine still has one open. In early September, Pierre Gasly’s contract was officially extended until 2028, so the French driver can remain confident about his future.
His teammate, however, is not as secure. Alpine started the season with a different driver: Jack Doohan, who was replaced after just six races by Argentine rookie Franco Colapinto. Despite this opportunity, Franco Colapinto has not delivered the expected results and may not retain his seat alongside Pierre Gasly next year.
“One or two races” to decide
Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive advisor, revealed that currently there are two candidates for the seat: Franco Colapinto and Paul Aron. Aron is Alpine’s reserve driver and finished third in the 2024 Formula 2 championship, behind Gabriel Bortoleto and Isack Hadjar.
“It’s a choice between Franco and Paul. Paul is a very nice guy and also a very fast driver. I need to understand what is best for the team. I have no interest in anyone else,” Briatore said.
“My only goal is to bring the best available drivers to the team and work with them to achieve the best possible results. It’s very simple. I need one or two races to evaluate, but honestly, as of today, I don’t know who I’ll choose.”
Will Franco Colapinto prove enough this season to secure his seat for next year? These “one or two races” Flavio Briatore mentioned could be crucial for his future in Alpine.
Leave a Reply