P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Franco Colapinto has explained how one crucial difference compared to previous seasons has “really helped” him ahead of the 2026 F1 campaign.
Franco Colapinto has expressed how participating in an F1 pre-season schedule has significantly benefited him prior to the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Argentine driver received Alpine’s support to partner with Pierre Gasly this year after competing in 18 Grands Prix in 2025. Although he didn’t score any points following Jack Doohan’s replacement at Alpine, Colapinto managed to narrow the gap to Gasly towards the season’s end. Alpine put an end to speculations about the 22-year-old driver’s future by confirming his continuance with the team in early November. Colapinto emphasized the importance of his first full pre-season testing program, highlighting that the experience has brought him closer to his competitors in terms of mileage and readiness for the upcoming challenges on the track. With nearly half of last year’s racing distance already covered in testing, Colapinto appreciates the significant progress made by having the opportunity to participate in a complete pre-season training regimen.
