Alpine Condemns Online Abuse of Colapinto After Japan Crash

The BWT Alpine Formula One Team issued an open letter on Thursday condemning online abuse directed at driver Franco Colapinto following a high-speed crash involving Haas racer Oliver Bearman during the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, while also addressing death threats against former Alpine driver Esteban Ocon from an earlier incident in China.

The crash occurred on Sunday as Bearman approached Spoon Curve, where a speed differential of approximately 45 to 50 kilometers per hour between his Haas and Colapinto's slower-moving Alpine led to Bearman losing control and impacting the barriers at around 308 kilometers per hour, experiencing a 50G force. Bearman sustained knee contusions but was reported to be okay. The International Automobile Federation reviewed the incident during the race and determined no further action was necessary, though it noted the closing speeds as a characteristic of the 2026 cars that warrants closer examination in upcoming meetings.

Alpine emphasized driver safety in its statement, stating that the most important aspect is the wellbeing of all involved. The team also highlighted its ongoing efforts to monitor social media channels and moderate abusive...