According to an official report from Máxima, the Argentine has established himself as the favorite to secure the second seat for the upcoming season
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Franco Colapintois going through decisive weeks regarding his future in Formula 1. The Argentine driver, who made his debut this year with Alpine, has become one of the revelations of the final stretch of the season. His performance in the last races, where he outperformed his teammate Pierre Gasly, has strengthened his position within the French team and positioned him as the main candidate to remain in 2026.
An article published on the official F1 website, written by English journalist Lawrence Barretto, highlighted Colapinto's development and analyzed the complex internal landscape of the French team. In his report, Barretto indicated that the team based in Enstone is fully focused on the new technical era of 2026, and that the decision regarding who will accompany Gasly will be made at the end of the season.
"At least for now, it seems they're focusing their selection internally, considering Franco Colapinto and Paul Aron," wrote Barretto. He also mentioned that Jack Doohan, who started the season with the team, "is unlikely to return to competition."
La decisión estaría entre Colapinto y Aron
Paddock sources agree that the Argentine is leading the fight. "Colapinto replied to turn his situation around and now, according to sources, he is in good shape to keep his seat," the article stated.
Meanwhile, Steve Nielsen, team principal, was clear in praising his progress: "Pierre is a very experienced driver. We compare Franco with Pierre, and he has done an excellent job in the last three races. If this continues, I see no reason why he can't stay in the position, but that decision is still far off."
Although he hasn't scored points yet, Barretto explained that this is more due to the car's poor performance than the driver's level. In fact, Colapinto beat Gasly in four of the last five qualifying sessions, and in race pace he has already managed to match him.
Colapinto estuvo mejor que Gasly en las últimas carreras
Finally, the F1 analysis also emphasized the added value that having the financial support the Argentine brings represents for Alpine, in a context where the team expects to improve with the arrival of Mercedes engines starting in 2026.
