Argentine driver Franco Colapinto has completed his first tests in Barcelona and has set the date for his return to the car in the context of the 2026 Formula 1 pre-season. Following the private test at the Barcelona-Catalunya Circuit, the Argentine will resume official activities between February 11 and 13, when the first open tests will be held in Bahrain, according to the Argentine News Agency. As confirmed by the FIA, the 2026 pre-season will extend for 11 days, almost double the usual length, due to the implementation of the new technical regulations. The issue did not escalate: the Argentine driver returned to the pits on his own, continued the planned program, and ended the day on a positive note, completing 60 laps and setting times that placed him third among the cars present. Far from being deterred by the setback, the driver showed constant progress throughout the day, improving his times between the morning and afternoon sessions while adapting to a brand-new car and the aerodynamic demands of the 2026 regulations. The French team downplayed the situation and emphasized that it was a minor issue, common on days focused on reliability and data collection. After the tests in Bahrain—which will have a second session from February 18 to 20—Colapinto and Alpine will aim squarely at the official start of the season. The 2026 Formula 1 season will begin with the Australian Grand Prix, to be held from March 6 to 8 in Melbourne, marking the first competitive weekend of the year and the true starting point for the Argentine's project in the top category.
