P1racenews AI automatic summary:
New Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen has hinted that a decision on its second driver for the 2026 F1 team is not too far away.
New Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen has hinted at an imminent decision regarding the team’s second driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Enstone-based squad has faced instability both on and off the track in 2025, with Pierre Gasly being the standout performer. Following various changes in leadership and personnel, Franco Colapinto and Estonian Paul Aron are the two contenders to partner Gasly next season. Nielsen expressed satisfaction with Colapinto’s recent progress and suggested that a decision will be made before the current season concludes. The Managing Director emphasized the importance of Colapinto’s improved performance and acknowledged the challenging transition many drivers face when moving up from Formula 2.
