Alpine’s Crucial Decision: Flavio Briatore Sets November Deadline for 2026 F1 Line-Up!
In a dramatic twist in the world of Formula 1, Alpine Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore has dropped a bombshell regarding the team’s second driver for the 2026 season! With the pressure mounting and the stakes higher than ever, Briatore has confirmed that the decision will be made in November, just before the current F1 season wraps up.
Alpine, the Enstone-based powerhouse, has been grappling with instability in its driver lineup, particularly alongside star driver Pierre Gasly. Gasly, who recently solidified his future with a new contract extending through 2028, is ready to take the team to new heights. However, the second seat remains a hotbed of uncertainty.
Since taking over from Jack Doohan after the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, Franco Colapinto has struggled to find his footing. Despite being granted five races to prove himself, the Argentinian sensation has yet to score a single point—a stark contrast to Gasly’s impressive 20 points that currently have the team languishing at the bottom of the standings. The pressure is palpable, and time is running out!
At the Monza Grand Prix, Briatore faced intense scrutiny as he addressed the pressing question of who will partner Gasly. When asked if a decision had been made, Briatore candidly replied, “No,” but he did acknowledge Colapinto’s recent improvements. “For the moment, I believe Franco is doing a good job… he was a bit inexperienced in the beginning, like a lot of the rookies, young drivers. Now, in the last three, four races, he’s much more consistent, no mistakes and maybe it’s Franco, maybe we see.”
With only four to five races left in the season, every moment counts! Briatore emphasized the urgency of the situation, confirming that a decision will be reached in November. “It is November we need to make a decision,” he stated, leaving fans and pundits alike on the edge of their seats.
However, Briatore’s options for a seasoned driver have dwindled. Valtteri Bottas, who was previously linked to Alpine, has signed with newcomers Cadillac for the upcoming season, narrowing the field. Yet, there’s a glimmer of hope! The highly-rated reserve driver Paul Aron is emerging as a strong contender. Having gained valuable experience with FP1 outings for both Alpine and Sauber this year, Aron could very well be the key to Alpine’s future success.
As the countdown to November begins, all eyes will be on Alpine and their pivotal decision that could reshape their trajectory in the fast-paced world of Formula 1. Will Colapinto rise to the occasion, or will a new star emerge from the shadows? One thing is for sure—this is a story that fans won’t want to miss!
