Argentine driver Franco Colapinto faces a pivotal weekend at the United States Grand Prix, with Alpine set to announce their second 2026 seat in November
Colapinto arrives at the Circuit of the Americas aiming not only to score his first Formula 1 points but also to prove he deserves to stay with Alpine next season.
The Buenos Aires-born rookie, who replaced Jack Doohan mid-year, has steadily improved since Hungary, keeping pace with Estonian reserve driver Paul Aron. Alpine, which will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026, has yet to confirm who will join Pierre Gasly in the team’s new project.
Despite the A525’s limitations, Colapinto’s recent performances have sparked optimism within the French squad. “We give it our all, but the car is tough to drive. We’re very slow compared to the rest,” he admitted after the Singapore GP.
Austin offers a fresh chance to impress. With the sprint race format, Colapinto will have two opportunities to shine before the season ends, while Alpine decides if the team’s future will also carry an Argentine touch.