P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Franco Colapinto’s main sponsor has disappeared from Alpine’s sponsorship portfolio. What is the reason, and what can we expect now?
Alpine’s sponsor, Mercado Libre, has disappeared from the team’s sponsorship portfolio despite its significant role in Franco Colapinto’s F1 career. The absence of the e-commerce giant’s logo on the A526 race car unveiled this year has sparked surprise and questions. While Colapinto’s contract with Alpine has been extended until 2026, signs of a continued partnership with Mercado Libre seem to have vanished. Sources suggest that the Argentine company is revamping its F1 presence and pursuing a more diversified approach to sponsorship in Latin America. Already, Mercado Libre’s Brazilian subsidiary has partnered with Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto, indicating a shift away from exclusive driver sponsorships. Sergio Perez has also sported the Mercado Libre logo, hinting at further collaborations in the near future.
