P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Franco Colapinto has been selected as the driver from F1’s tail end under the most pressure to perform in 2026 — but who was second?
Franco Colapinto is seen as the driver under the most pressure heading into the new F1 season, particularly as he races for Alpine, which finished last in 2025, and among the newly established F1 teams. The majority of F1 fans have singled out the Argentine driver as the one who must shine in the upcoming races, starting in Melbourne. Alpine’s decision to switch to Mercedes engines adds to the significance of Colapinto’s performance amid high expectations and scrutiny from within the team. Sergio Perez also faces substantial pressure in Heat 3, surpassing Valtteri Bottas in the Cadillac lineup, ahead of the final showdown with other drivers to determine who bears the most scrutiny. Heat 1 and Heat 2 results are available for comparison, as the racing world eagerly awaits the performance of these drivers in the upcoming season.
