It has been made clear that a significant improvement in performance is expected from Franco Colapinto in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Argentine is starting his first full year in the category after replacing Jack Doohan from the 2025 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, in a campaign marked by difficulties and criticism.
Alpine decided to keep Colapinto for 2026 despite his first year without points and with a clear disadvantage compared to teammate Pierre Gasly. At 22 years old, the Argentine driver faced problems mainly in qualifying, often starting from the back of the grid and compromising his chances of progressing in Sunday’s races.
A statement was made that a more mentally prepared Colapinto is expected, and it was highlighted that the pressure will be greater. “Last year was Franco’s first year in Formula 1,” a comment was made. “There was a lot of expectation, and not everything was managed correctly. This year, you see Franco’s face, and he’s much more mature. He’s no longer the kid he was last year.”
Over the European winter, Alpine focused on the Argentine’s most fragile point: his performance in qualifying. In 2025, Colapinto lost the duels against Gasly by 17 to 5 in the direct comparison on Saturdays, despite showing a similar pace in the race. An explanation was given that there was specific work done on this aspect.
“We spent a lot of time with him this winter,” it was stated. “Franco’s main problem was qualifying, because in the race, he was fast, like Pierre. He needed to drive the car and qualify using his talent, not emotionally. He’s growing. He’s very good in the factory. We spent a lot of time in the simulator, a lot of time in the simulator. We did everything that’s possible to do.”
Colapinto also acknowledged that in 2026, there is no longer room for excuses within Alpine. The driver stated that the change in regulations and power unit puts the team in a new phase, and results need to appear.
“As a team, there are no more excuses,” the Argentine said. “The power unit has changed, and the regulations have changed. Now we have to work and deliver performance. Last year, we were focused on 2026, and now 2026 has arrived. It’s time to seek the results the team deserves.”
Colapinto reinforced the expectation about the new Alpine car for this season. “Everyone worked hard. I hope it’s a fast car. It looks good, I hope it’s fast, and we can achieve the results we expect.”
The preseason will have its first private test in Barcelona starting this Monday, when Alpine will be able to start collecting real data before the start of the championship.
