Alpine's F1 2026 Driver Dilemma: Who Will Partner Pierre Gasly?
As the 2026 Formula 1 season draws nearer, only a handful of teams have yet to finalize their driver rosters. Among them, Alpine stands at a crossroads, pondering the ideal teammate to join Pierre Gasly, who is already secured until the close of 2028. The search for the second seat involves a deep dive into various talents, each with their own set of credentials and challenges.
Currently, Franco Colapinto's future at Alpine is under scrutiny. Despite a commendable nine-race stint with Williams last year, where he secured points twice and garnered significant paddock attention, his performance this season at Alpine has yet to yield any points. Critics acknowledge his raw speed and potential, evidenced by his surprising out-qualification of Alex Albon in a previous Grand Prix weekend, albeit under specific circumstances. However, a pattern of errors has plagued his current season, coinciding with Alpine's own struggles with a challenging car that has seen minimal development. Some argue that removing Colapinto prematurely would be a misstep, akin to Red Bull's past errors in blaming drivers when the car was the underlying issue. The unstable environment at Alpine, marked by management changes and external pressures, further complicates Colapinto's ability to perform consistently. Providing him with consistent support and a more competitive vehicle could unlock his full potential, suggesting that patience might be Alpine's best strategy.
Another strong candidate for the Alpine seat is Yuki Tsunoda. Should Red Bull opt to make space for emerging talents, Tsunoda could become available, presenting a significant opportunity for Alpine. His proven speed, coupled with growing experience despite some inconsistencies, makes him an attractive prospect. His prior collaboration and friendship with Gasly during their AlphaTauri days could also foster a harmonious team dynamic, a valuable asset in the demanding world of F1. This existing rapport could offer Alpine an immediate boost in team cohesion.
Emerging from the junior ranks, F2 leader Leonardo Fornaroli also presents a compelling case. Demonstrating remarkable consistency and professionalism throughout his F2 campaign, Fornaroli has secured multiple victories and consistent points finishes. His reserved nature and avoidance of on-track incidents, combined with his rapid ascent through the junior categories, signal a driver who can deliver reliable performances. While not as flashy as some, his ability to consistently extract results, even without direct F1 academy backing, aligns with Alpine's need for stability and a steady points-scorer. Promoting such a talent from outside their existing program could inject fresh dynamism into the team.
The decision facing Alpine is not merely about choosing a driver but also about charting a course for its future in Formula 1. Whether they choose to nurture existing talent, secure an experienced hand, or invest in a rising star, the selected individual will play a crucial role in Alpine's ambitions for the 2026 season and beyond. The choice will undoubtedly shape the team's trajectory and its competitiveness on the grid.