Alpine say Franco Colapinto contract about talent and not money
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Team chief Steve Nielson insisted that Alpine had considered all of the available drivers before reaching a decision to continue with Franco Colapinto.
PHOTO: AFP
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SAO PAULO – Alpine re-signed Franco Colapinto for his talent and not the Argentinian sponsorship package that supports him, team chief Steve Nielsen said on Nov 7.
Speaking in the Interlagos paddock at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Nielsen insisted that Alpine had considered all of the available drivers before reaching a decision to continue with the 22-year-old.
“To be honest, we had everybody on the table – and a lot more drivers that have since gone elsewhere – but gradually we moved towards choosing Franco,” he said.
“We’re happy with that, but anybody that was a possibility at some stage or another, we considered them. Of course, you can’t ignore the financials...
“But ultimately we’ve got Franco on talent and the fact that he brings the financial side is a happy accident.”
The team are running with the branding of Colapinto’s sponsor Mercado Libre this weekend for the third race running.
“Our decision for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver,” added Alpine’s executive consultant Flavio Briatore.
“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 (Gasly) have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season.”
Colapinto has yet to drive a full season in F1. In 2024 he started nine races for Williams, as a replacement for Logan Sargeant. This season, Alpine promoted him from reserve to replace Jack Doohan at the seventh race at Imola.
“Ever since I made my debut, I knew it would be a huge challenge to keep my place,” said Colapinto.
“It’s a long and tough road and I am proud to have the opportunity to stay with the team in 2026, alongside Pierre, who has been a great teammate and will undoubtedly be someone I can continue to learn from.”
While Gasly has a contract to the end of 2028, Colapinto’s future had remained uncertain while the team assessed their options, with Estonian Paul Aron also considered.
Colapinto has yet to pick up a point this season. The team’s more experienced driver, Gasly, has collected 20 with a highest finish of sixth.
“It’s very difficult for any new driver coming in,” said Nielsen.
“We’ve seen some come in and hit the ground running straightaway and others who struggle a little bit.”
Alpine are last in the 10-team standings with only 20 points, having stopped development of their car some time ago to focus on 2026 when the sport faces a major engine and rule change.
“Franco... struggled a bit to start with, to be honest, but gradually – and we are lucky to have Pierre as an established marker – he has upped his game and taken the fight to Pierre,” added Nielsen.
“He has even been quicker than Pierre on a few occasions, so ultimately that’s what got him the seat for next year.” AFP, REUTERS
