Argentine driver Franco Colapinto has been confirmed as a race driver for Alpine for the 2026 season, in which he could have a competitive car, unlike what happened this year.
The main reason to believe Colapinto will have a competitive car is that Alpine will change its engine supplier for 2026, switching from Renault to Mercedes. This would solve one of the major problems they had in 2025.
Colapinto himself has on several occasions expressed his dissatisfaction with the Renault engine, which prevented him from getting the necessary acceleration and made it twice as difficult to overtake opponents.
Another factor that is exciting for 2026 is that due to their position in the Constructors' Championship, Alpine will be the team with the most wind tunnel time. This is a simulation tool that uses controlled airflow to test and develop a car's aerodynamics, optimizing air resistance and downforce.
Furthermore, Alpine have not invested in developing their current car for several weeks, as their absolute priority is to have a competitive car in 2026.
All these factors could be crucial for Colapinto and his Alpine teammate, Frenchman Pierre Gasly, to have a competitive car in the upcoming season that allows them to fight for points every race weekend.
