Franco Colapinto is set to light up the streets of his hometown as Formula One returns to Argentina for a historic demonstration event.
Colapinto will drive the 2012 E20, powered by a V8 Renault engine, in a full BWT Alpine livery, on the streets in the Palermo neighbourhood of the Argentine capital on 26 April.
In the process, he will become the first Argentinian to drive an F1 car on the streets of Buenos Aires, marking a unique moment for national motorsport and for the delight of Argentina’s dedicated and passionate fans.
“Driving at home in a Formula One car will be one of the most special moments of my life,” said Colapinto. “It’s my way of giving back, even just a little, for all the support and love I’ve received since I was very young, which pushes me every day to keep dreaming of achieving all my career ambitions.
“Every message, every flag, and every cheer has always been there,” he added. “This is for all of you, to enjoy this special moment together.”
The event positions Buenos Aires on the global map of Formula One-related experiences, bringing Argentine fans closer to a discipline that is currently experiencing one of its biggest growths worldwide.
As part of Mercado Libre presents: Franco Colapinto Road Show Buenos Aires 2026, Avenida del Libertador and Avenida Sarmiento will be transformed into a 2km street circuit, where two official show runs will take place, being the highlight of the day.
The day’s festival will also feature unique fan and guest experiences, a fan forum and music acts, among other exciting activities for the attending public.
The Government of the City of Buenos Aires is institutionally supporting the event, reinforcing its strategy to position the city as a hub for high-impact international events.
Argentina has hosted 21 rounds of the Formula One World Championship between 1953 and 1998, all at the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez in Buenos Aires.
The last time was in 1998, F1 having returned to the country in 1995 after an absence of thirteen years.
There has been talk of the sport returning, with a number of new venues mentioned, but thus far nothing has been agreed. The 1999 event was cancelled at short notice, leaving a five-week gap between the opening two rounds.