Alpine F1 skips mention of Franco Colapinto after his strong British GP finish
At the British Grand Prix in Silverstone, Alpine driver Franco Colapinto started from the back of the grid after a technical failure in qualifying, climbed ten places and finished ninth, earning points for the team. In the post‑race briefing, Alpine sporting director Steve Nielsen praised both drivers and the team's progress but did not name Colapinto, offering only generic comments such as “Both drivers did a great job… we’re just outside the top 10.”
Earlier at the FIA press conference Nielsen had said, “Pierre has the seat secured for next season. Franco, no. If he is good enough he will stay, otherwise there will be another option,” while also acknowledging Colapinto’s improvement this year. Alpine executive adviser Flavio Briatore later highlighted the “enormous” comeback, calling for accelerated development of the car to stay competitive with midfield rivals like Racing Bulls.
Teammate Pierre Gasly expressed frustration, saying he was “a bit angry” about being overtaken by Colapinto in the pits after a slow stop. Alpine currently sits fifth in the Constructors’ Championship, one point ahead of Racing Bulls, and will aim to consolidate its position at the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix at Spa‑Francorchamps.