P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine set to announce second F1 driver for 2026 as Felipe Massa trial commences – RacingNews365 Review
Franco Colapinto took over Jack Doohan’s seat at Alpine after the Miami Grand Prix, causing Australian Doohan to be sidelined just six rounds into the season. Colapinto has faced challenges in the Alpine car this year, with even Pierre Gasly struggling with the A525. Felipe Massa’s trial for the 2008 Formula 1 world championship has begun, as he seeks recognition as the rightful champion and compensation for lost earnings. The FIA has responded to Massa’s claim, calling it “torturous” and “overly ambitious”. Reports suggest that Colapinto may continue with Alpine for the 2026 F1 season, with the decision narrowing down to him or reserve driver Paul Aron. George Russell has expressed a belief that Max Verstappen joining Mercedes would be a “lose-lose” situation for Verstappen, but that he personally would welcome the challenge of partnering the champion driver.
