Speaking to Paddock Magazine ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix, Franco Colapinto reflected on Alpine’s encouraging progress in 2026 and the challenge of closing the gap to Formula 1’s established front-runners.
After spending much of 2025 fighting at the back of the field, Alpine has emerged as one of the winners of the 2026 season. The Enstone-based team arrived in Spielberg fifth in the Constructors’ Championship, firmly established as the leading midfield outfit.
The turnaround follows a period of major behind-the-scenes change, including the decision to end development of Renault’s Formula 1 power unit and switch to Mercedes customer engines, while the arrival of executive advisor Flavio Briatore has brought renewed momentum to the team’s long-term project. With upgrades continuing to arrive throughout the campaign, Alpine’s next objective is clear: reduce the gap to the leading four teams.
Paddock Magazine: Alpine is currently the best of the rest behind the top four teams. How optimistic are you that the team can keep that position until the end of the season? And do you think it might even be possible to challenge the top four already this year?
Franco Colapinto: I think at some races we look closer than at others. It’s been a bit up and down compared to the top four teams. At some races, we look closer; at others, we’re a bit further away.
With these new cars, everything is a bit more unpredictable. We’re working hard to bring upgrades and make the car quicker, but everyone else is doing the same. The top four teams always seem to be bringing something new, so sometimes we drop back a little, then we close the gap again.
Hopefully, yes. We’re working hard because, of course, last year we were at the back, and now we’re in the midfield, which is very positive. But we want more, and we’re working hard to close the gap.