A BLOWOUT AT ALPINE! BRIATORE GOES ALL IN ON COLAPINTO: “HE’S THE BEST AND HIS TIME HAS COME”
Formula 1 is experiencing a period of high tension in the Alpine paddock, and the epicenter of the news is Franco Colapinto, the young Argentine driver who is revolutionizing the French team. Flavio Briatore, the team’s executive advisor, has shaken up the motorsport world with some explosive statements: “Franco is the best talent we have, and his time to shine has come.” These words, spoken before the Imola Grand Prix, confirm that Colapinto will replace Jack Doohan as the regular driver starting with the next race, marking a milestone in the career of the 21-year-old from Pilar de la Frontera.
Briatore’s decision is no coincidence. Since Colapinto joined Alpine as a reserve driver following his outstanding performance at Williams in 2024, the Italian has been closely monitoring his development. Franco, who scored five points in nine Grands Prix with Williams, demonstrated an innate talent and adaptability that surprised everyone. His eighth place in Azerbaijan and his stellar maneuver against Fernando Alonso in Austin were just some of the signs that convinced Briatore that the Argentine is ready to make the leap.
The move, however, is not without controversy. Jack Doohan, the Australian driver who occupied the seat, has not lived up to expectations at Alpine. Despite being a protégé of the team’s young driver academy, Doohan has failed to score points in the seven races contested this season, which has cast doubt on his continued presence. Briatore, known for his pragmatic approach, was clear: “In Formula 1, there is no room for feelings. If a driver isn’t delivering results, we replace him.” This ruthless philosophy led to the departure of Oliver Oakes as team principal, a former Doohan supporter, and has consolidated Briatore’s power at Alpine.
Colapinto, for his part, not only brings talent but also significant financial potential. According to sources, the Argentine arrived at Alpine with sponsorship backing that could exceed $30 million, a key factor in a sport where sporting and financial results go hand in hand. Furthermore, the enthusiasm he generates in Argentina, a strategic market for Renault, reinforces his value off the track.
Colapinto’s debut at Imola, a circuit where he has already won in Formula 2 and 3, generates enormous expectations. His teammate, Pierre Gasly, has praised his natural speed, while Briatore himself has outlined an ambitious roadmap: “In 2026 we will be competitive, and in 2027, the goal is the title.” With the backing of the Italian tycoon, who catapulted legends such as Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso, Colapinto has a unique opportunity to establish himself as a Formula 1 star.
The announcement, accompanied by a clever Mercado Libre advertising campaign, has unleashed a wave of enthusiasm on social media. Argentine fans are already dreaming of seeing their driver flying the Albiceleste flag at the top of their game. Will Imola mark the beginning of a new era for Colapinto and Alpine? The countdown has already begun.
