Alpine has finalized its driver line-up for 2026, confirming that Franco Colapinto will retain his race seat alongside Pierre Gasly for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Colapinto was appointed as reserve driver by Alpine ahead of this season, replacing Jack Doohan after the Miami Grand Prix in May. Despite a difficult start, his performance improved compared to Gasly in the second half of the season, and Alpine has confirmed that the Argentine will race again in 2026.
Executive advisor Flavio Briatore said: “I have followed Franco’s development throughout Formula 1 and have always believed that he has the right qualities and potential to become a top driver who can grow with the team.” “Our decision to continue our cooperation in 2026 clearly demonstrates our commitment and strong support to Franco as he develops as a race driver.
“This year has been a tough year for the whole team and it hasn’t been the easiest scenario to perform. However, Franco and Pierre have done their best to put the team in the best position for next season. With Pierre and Franco in the lineup, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help take the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer and shout about next season.”
The announcement, made at 10:43 a.m. local time and also incorporating the numbers of both drivers, came closest to Colapinto’s home race in Brazil. Alpine also noted that the date 11/7/25 will also be added to Colapinto’s driver number 43.
“I am very grateful to Flavio and the entire team for believing in me to take the team forward in the future,” Colapinto said. “From the moment I made my debut in F1, I knew it would be a huge challenge to maintain my position in the sport given the current situation.
“It has been a long and difficult journey, but I am very proud to have the opportunity to drive with this team again in 2026, alongside Pierre, who is a great teammate and who I will no doubt continue to learn from.
“Finally, it’s very special and timely to make this announcement here in Brazil this weekend. Being so close to my home country of Argentina, there’s so much support and it’s like a home race for me. Having so many fans join me and the team on this journey is why we’re racing. Next year, when Formula 1 is supposed to be reset, I hope we can give everyone who supports us something to celebrate with a big smile on their faces.” Let’s go Takayama! “
Colapinto’s confirmation means that the only two seats left undecided for next season are the Red Bull Drive and Racing Bull seats alongside Max Verstappen, and all existing seats confirmed so far will remain unchanged for 2026.
