Franco Colapinto’s Formula 1 future appears increasingly secure after Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore suggested that the Argentine driver could remain with the team beyond 2026. Speaking on the latest episode of the Beyond The Grid podcast, Briatore praised Colapinto’s development and hinted that Alpine is already considering extending the partnership into the 2027 season.
The comments represent a significant vote of confidence from one of Formula 1’s most influential figures. Since arriving at Alpine, Colapinto has faced immense pressure to prove himself at the highest level of motorsport, but Briatore believes the young driver has shown encouraging signs of growth.
A Driver Growing Into the Role
According to Briatore, Colapinto has steadily improved since joining the Enstone-based team. While adapting to Formula 1 is never straightforward, the Argentine has demonstrated the pace, attitude, and work ethic required to establish himself as a long-term asset.
The Alpine advisor emphasized that the team is not simply evaluating short-term results. Instead, management is focused on identifying drivers who can contribute to the organization’s broader ambitions over the coming years. Colapinto’s progress has apparently convinced key decision-makers that he could be part of that journey.
Briatore noted that consistency remains crucial, but the signs so far have been positive enough to warrant discussions about a future beyond the current contractual framework.
Stability Becomes a Priority for Alpine
One of the recurring themes in Briatore’s remarks was the importance of stability. Formula 1 teams often struggle when they constantly rotate drivers, and Alpine appears eager to establish a more settled lineup as it prepares for a crucial new era of regulations.
With Pierre Gasly already serving as an experienced benchmark within the team, Alpine sees value in maintaining continuity if Colapinto continues to develop at his current rate. A stable driver pairing could provide a stronger foundation for technical progress and long-term competitiveness.
The strategy aligns with Briatore’s broader vision of transforming Alpine into a regular frontrunner rather than a midfield contender.
2027: A Defining Year for Alpine
The possibility of extending Colapinto’s stay becomes even more interesting when viewed through the lens of Alpine’s ambitious goals for 2027.
Briatore has repeatedly spoken about his desire to see Alpine fighting at the front of the grid. The team is entering a new phase with major technical changes, including the use of Mercedes power units, and management believes the groundwork being laid today could pay significant dividends in the near future.
If Alpine’s performance trajectory continues upward, retaining a driver already familiar with the team’s culture, engineers, and development direction could prove invaluable.
For Colapinto, remaining with Alpine through 2027 would provide a rare opportunity to grow alongside a team attempting to make the leap from midfield contender to championship challenger.
A Crucial Period Ahead
Despite the encouraging comments, Briatore stopped short of making any formal commitment. The coming races will remain important in determining how the situation develops.
Formula 1 is a results-driven environment, and continued progress will be essential. However, the tone of Briatore’s remarks suggests that Colapinto currently enjoys strong support within the organization.
For a young driver still establishing himself on the world stage, that backing could be just as valuable as any points finish.
As Alpine continues building toward its ambitious future, Franco Colapinto increasingly looks like a driver who may be part of the project for years to come.
