Franco Colapinto’s position at Alpine has become a major topic of debate just days before the Belgian Grand Prix, with widespread speculation clouding his future in Formula One. The Argentine driver, just 19 years old, remains uncertain about his status within the team, as Alpine has yet to provide clarity on whether he will continue alongside them.
Despite recent struggles, notably several crashes and no championship points in the last six races, Colapinto’s pace on the track continues to be evident. While journalists and fans press him for answers, the rookie prefers to focus on gathering and analyzing data rather than engaging in the ongoing seat rumors.
Alternative Driver Names Circulate as Alpine’s Line-Up Fears Grow
Speculation has intensified with seasoned drivers like Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez mentioned as possible replacements at Alpine. Additionally, Alpine’s own junior driver Jack Doohan is also in the mix. Colapinto acknowledges hearing these names but is concentrating on preparing the car for Spa-Francorchamps and aiming for consistent race finishes this weekend.
Recently, Colapinto addressed the swirling rumors with cautious optimism, stating,
“There are always talks and rumours, but all I can do is keep working and try to help the team improve the car.”
—Franco Colapinto, Alpine F1 driver
He noted that Silverstone showed some progress, even though the overall performance was still below Alpine’s expectations. As the race at Spa nears, Alpine’s management faces strategic decisions that will significantly influence both the driver lineup and the team’s championship ambitions.
Telemetry and Data Underpinning Speculation in the Paddock
Within the paddock, the rumors are more than just idle talk; observers are meticulously reviewing telemetry, engine information, and driver feedback to evaluate Colapinto’s performance and potential team changes. The unfolding race weekend is expected to reveal further details regarding Alpine’s approach to their driver lineup amid ongoing discussions behind the scenes.
Tracing Franco Colapinto’s Racing Journey and Achievements
Born in Pilar, Buenos Aires, Franco Alejandro Colapinto began kart racing at nine, quickly earning multiple regional and national titles. He moved up through junior formula categories, securing the 2019 F4 Spanish Championship with Drivex. In 2020, he placed third in both the Formula Renault Eurocup and the Toyota Racing Series.
Colapinto transitioned to sportscar racing in 2021, competing in the LMP2 class across the FIA World Endurance Championship, European Le Mans Series, and Asian Le Mans Series with G-Drive, finishing third in Asia. He also raced in Formula Regional European, finishing sixth overall, before progressing to FIA Formula 3 in 2022 and rising through the ranks to finish fourth the following season.
In 2023–2024, as a Williams Driver Academy member, he debuted in Formula One at the Italian Grand Prix, replacing Logan Sargeant for the season’s remainder as an interim before Carlos Sainz Jr. joined. This marked the first time an Argentine driver competed in Formula One since Gastón Mazzacane in 2001. Colapinto scored his first points at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and repeated this success in the United States.
In 2025, he became Alpine’s reserve driver before being promoted mid-season to replace Jack Doohan. He currently races with car number 43, has achieved eight podiums, three race wins, and two pole positions this season, sitting second in the championship standings with 285 points. His record includes 25 career victories, 12 fastest laps, and sector records at four different circuits, contributing to Alpine’s status as the leading constructor in the championship.
Implications of the Current Uncertainty for Alpine and Colapinto
The tension surrounding Franco Colapinto’s Alpine F1 future reflects a high-stakes moment for both the driver and the team as they balance talent development with championship ambitions. With strategic decisions looming, Alpine must consider whether to maintain confidence in their young protégé or pursue experienced alternatives to maximize race results.
As the Belgian Grand Prix weekend unfolds, attention will remain fixed on Colapinto’s ability to deliver on track and the team’s ultimate choice regarding the driver lineup. The outcome will not only impact Alpine’s title chase but also set the tone for Colapinto’s career trajectory in the fiercely competitive world of Formula One.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is 17 banned in F1?
A. Number 17 is the only driver number in Formula 1 that is officially retired, in honor of Jules Bianchi. The French driver was using this number when he had a tragic accident during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.
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A. Born in 1985, Lewis Hamilton is a British race car driver in Formula One, currently with the Mercedes team. He has raced for McLaren too. Hamilton openly shares his experiences with ADHD and explores his various interests and passions.
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A. Drivers can pick a permanent number between 0 and 99, but not 1. The World Drivers’ Champion is the only one who can choose number 1, if they want to, though it is not mandatory.
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A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British driver in Formula One, currently with Mercedes and previously with McLaren. He openly talks about his ADHD journey and shares his wide range of interests and passions.