Alpine narrows 2026 F1 seat to Franco Colapinto or Paul Aron
Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore has confirmed the team’s shortlist for its second 2026 seat is down to Franco Colapinto and reserve driver Paul Aron. Pierre Gasly recently signed a multi-year extension, while the identity of his team-mate will be decided after further evaluation.
The candidates
- Franco Colapinto — Promoted mid-season and currently occupying the race seat alongside Gasly, the Argentine’s case rests on consistent execution and development potential.
- Paul Aron — The Estonian reserve finished third in the 2024 Formula 2 standings, showing maturity and speed in a tightly contested field.
Timing and criteria
Briatore said he needs "another one or two races" to decide and stressed he has no personal ties influencing the choice: "My only interest is to take the best driver available and do the best job with us." The focus will be on upside, adaptability and how each driver integrates with the team’s technical direction for the 2026 rules.
The backdrop
Jack Doohan started the year but was replaced after six rounds, opening the door to Colapinto’s opportunity. With Gasly locked in, Alpine’s final call will define the team’s long-term driver pairing as F1 transitions into the next regulatory era.
