Franco Colapinto's Uphill Battle at Alpine: Navigating Weakness and Securing Future

Navigating Uncertainty: Colapinto's Quest for Stability in F1
Colapinto's Struggle with the Unforgiving 2025 Alpine Chassis
Despite taking over from Jack Doohan, Franco Colapinto has encountered significant hurdles in the 2025 Formula 1 season, consistently delivering underwhelming results. The inherent difficulties of the Alpine F1 car, characterized by its unpredictability and narrow performance window, have presented a formidable challenge for the young driver. After seven races, Colapinto has yet to secure any championship points, with his best finish being 13th and his highest qualifying position 12th in Canada, where he notably outqualified his teammate, Pierre Gasly.
The Car's Inherent Flaws and Their Impact on Driver Performance
Colapinto's challenges are not solely attributed to his inexperience. The A525 Alpine car itself is notoriously difficult to handle, especially over full race distances. This inherent flaw in the vehicle's design and performance significantly complicates matters for drivers, making it arduous to achieve optimal setup and consistent results. Pierre Gasly, a more seasoned driver, has also voiced concerns regarding the car's handling characteristics, underscoring that the issues extend beyond individual driver skill.
Alpine's Strategic Shift: Focusing on 2026 and Its Current Season Implications
Alpine's decision to prioritize the development of their 2026 car has directly impacted their current season's performance. This long-term strategy means less emphasis on improving the 2025 car, which consequently places the team, and its drivers, at a disadvantage against rivals who continue to invest in current-season upgrades. This strategic choice explains why teams like Sauber, Aston Martin, and Haas have shown significant improvement, leaving Alpine trailing in the constructors' standings.
The Pressure Cooker: Colapinto's Future and Commercial Backing
Speculation surrounding Colapinto's long-term future at Alpine remains rife. While reports from Argentina suggest he will retain his seat for the remainder of the 2025 season, his position is assessed on a race-by-race basis by figures like Flavio Briatore. His substantial commercial support from Argentina provides some leverage, yet consistent on-track performance is paramount. Alpine faces a critical decision: continue with Colapinto, potentially switch to another reserve driver like Paul Aron, or dedicate resources to improving the car's fundamental driveability.
Overcoming Challenges: Colapinto's Commitment to Progress
Despite the immense pressure and the car's limitations, Franco Colapinto maintains a determined outlook. He acknowledges the need to improve his ability to find a comfortable setup early in race weekends and adapt more quickly to the car's eccentricities. He recognizes that while the car can be quick within its optimal operating window, its instability and tendency to degrade rear tires rapidly pose significant challenges. Colapinto remains focused on working collaboratively with the team to find solutions, emphasizing that progress, though slower than desired, is being made.