The Argentine public is set to witness a unique and unprecedented event, as Franco Colapinto prepares to take a Formula 1 car to the streets of Buenos Aires. The driver from Pilar will headline a special road show scheduled for April 26, where he will drive on a temporary street circuit behind the wheel of the Renault E20 from 2012—originally raced under the Lotus name—powered by a Renault V8 engine and featuring full Alpine team branding.
With this event, Franco Colapinto will become the first Argentine driver to drive a Formula 1 car through the streets of the country’s capital, in what has been officially named the “Franco Colapinto Road Show Buenos Aires 2026.”
The Argentine driver, who finished 16th at the Japanese Grand Prix, spoke about the upcoming event in a statement released by Alpine: “Driving a Formula 1 car at home will be one of the most special moments of my life. It’s my way of giving back, even just a little, for all the support and affection I’ve received since I was a kid, which pushes me every day to keep dreaming of achieving all my career goals. Every message, every flag, and every cheer has always been there. This is for all of you, so we can enjoy this special moment together.”
Franco Colapinto also announced the event through an Instagram story, writing: “See you at home,” alongside an image containing the details of the exhibition.
The exhibition route
The event will begin at the intersection of Avenida del Libertador and Sarmiento, from where Franco Colapinto will drive a 2-kilometer circuit through the Palermo district, one of the most iconic areas of Buenos Aires.
The event will feature multiple areas designed to enhance the fan experience:
– An open and free-access sector for the general public.
– Exclusive sections with Fan Zone, grandstands, and Hospitality areas offering differentiated access and unique trackside views.
– The Fan Zone will include entertainment activities, brand activations, and interactive spaces.
– The Hospitality area will also provide Garage Tours, granting access to the team’s pit area.
A historic moment for Argentina
This road show will mark a historic milestone, as Franco Colapinto becomes the first Argentine driver to drive a Formula 1 car through the streets of Buenos Aires. The last time an F1 car ran through the city dates back to December 1, 2012, when Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, then racing for Toro Rosso, drove the Red Bull RB7, also powered by a Renault engine.
Just one day before the official confirmation, Mercado Libre, one of Franco Colapinto’s sponsors, released a promotional video on social media teasing the event. The clip featured Avenida del Libertador completely empty, transformed into what appeared to be a racetrack, with subtle references to Formula 1, including simulated starting lights, engine sounds, and a clear message displayed on city signs: “Just a dream in my mind. The next lap is at home.”
This event represents a highly anticipated moment for Argentine fans, who will have the opportunity to see a historic Alpine Formula 1 car up close on the streets of Buenos Aires during the Formula 1 break, creating a unique connection between the sport and its passionate local supporters.
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