Alpine Briatore hints at 2027 extension for Colapinto

Alpine Formula 1 driver Franco Colapinto has responded positively to public praise and a potential contract extension from team executive advisor Flavio Briatore, as speculation continues to link two-time world champion Fernando Alonso with a return to the Enstone-based squad. The comments come amid a resurgent season for Alpine, which currently sits fifth in the constructors' championship.

Briatore, speaking on the "Beyond The Grid" podcast, highlighted Colapinto's significant progress in his second season, noting improvements in his mental approach, technical skills, and integration with the team. The Argentine driver has scored 16 points so far in 2026, including a career-best sixth-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix, and has frequently out-qualified his more experienced teammate, Pierre Gasly. When asked about the team's driver lineup for the 2027 season, Briatore expressed openness to retaining the current pairing of Colapinto and Gasly, provided current performance levels are maintained. "If Franco is performing like he's performing now and the relationship between Franco and Pierre is like now... Why not?" Briatore said. He indicated a final decision would likely be...