P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine confirm F1 driver most likely to replace Franco Colapinto
Alpine managing director Steve Nielsen has hinted at the potential replacement for Franco Colapinto in 2026, as Colapinto has struggled to score points since taking over from Jack Doohan.
There is speculation about Colapinto’s future alongside Pierre Gasly, especially as Alpine is currently in last place in the constructors’ championship, with new regulations coming in 2026.
Despite recent improvements by Colapinto, Nielsen emphasized that performances are compared to Gasly’s and mentioned Paul Aron as a contender for the seat.
Paul Aron, Alpine’s test and reserve driver, has experience in Formula 2 and has taken part in FP1 sessions during the 2025 season with Sauber and Alpine.
Nielsen stated that Colapinto needs to continue performing well to secure his seat, with Aron potentially being the only other driver considered at the moment for the 2026 season.
