Franco Colapinto: The Rising Star of Formula 1 Set to Dazzle in 2026!
In a thrilling revelation that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community, Flavio Briatore, the Alpine executive advisor, has declared that Franco Colapinto is a changed man ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Gone is the “child” of last year, replaced by a confident and mature driver ready to make his mark on the world stage!
Colapinto, the young Argentinian sensation, is gearing up for his first complete F1 campaign, having previously dipped his toes into the high-stakes world of racing mid-season in 2024 with Williams, and later stepping in at Alpine in 2025 to replace Jack Doohan from the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix onwards. However, his 2025 season was nothing short of a tumultuous ride. With Alpine shifting its focus early to the upcoming regulation changes, Colapinto finished the season without a single point—a stark contrast to his impressive debut with Williams, where he reached Q3 and scored points in only his second race at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Briatore, known for his keen eye for talent and fierce expectations, acknowledged the struggles Colapinto faced last year. “Last year was Franco’s first year in Formula 1. There were a lot of expectations, this and that. Everything was not managed properly,” he remarked in an exclusive interview. He emphasized that the young driver’s transformation is evident, stating, “This year, you see Franco’s face and he is much more mature. He’s no longer like the child we had last year.”
Despite Colapinto’s challenges, he demonstrated flashes of brilliance during races, often matching the pace of his seasoned teammate Pierre Gasly. However, his Achilles’ heel lay in qualifying, where he ended the season trailing Gasly 17–5. Briatore pointed out that while Colapinto was quick on race day, his qualifying efforts needed refinement. “Franco’s main problem was qualifying, because in the race he was quick, like Pierre. He just needed to drive the car and qualify using his talent, not drive it emotionally,” Briatore explained, revealing the extensive work they’ve put in over the winter to elevate Colapinto’s game.
This winter has been pivotal for Colapinto, as he and the Alpine team have invested countless hours in the simulator to hone his skills. “We’ve done everything it’s possible to do,” Briatore assured.
Colapinto himself is buzzing with anticipation as he looks to the future. “As a team, there are no more excuses,” he asserted, reflecting on the need for tangible results after Alpine’s dismal finish at the bottom of the constructors’ championship in 2025. “The power unit has changed and the regulations have changed. Now we have to put the work in and deliver performance. Last year we were focusing on 2026, and now 2026 has arrived. It’s time to go and get the results the team deserves. Everyone has been working very hard. Hopefully it’s a quick car. It looks good, hopefully it’s fast, and we can achieve the results we expect.”
With the 2026 Formula 1 season on the horizon, all eyes are on Franco Colapinto. Will he rise to the occasion and transform potential into podiums? The stage is set, and the world is watching as this young prodigy embarks on what promises to be a spectacular season!








