As the 2026 Formula 1 grid starts to solidify, Alpine is one of the few teams still evaluating its driver line-up. While Pierre Gasly is locked in until 2028, the seat alongside him remains uncertain — with Franco Colapinto, Yuki Tsunoda, Leonardo Fornaroli, and Luke Browning all in contention.
Let’s break down the leading options and what they offer.
🏎️ Franco Colapinto: Keep the Faith or Cut Loose?
- Pros: Colapinto showed promise during his stint with Williams in 2024, including two points finishes. He has pace, personality, and a strong Latin American fan base.
- Cons: He’s been pointless in 2025 and prone to rookie errors. Critics say he lacks the pedigree to anchor Alpine’s rebuild.
Some argue the chaotic Alpine environment is holding him back, not his talent. Others believe his early flash was a fluke.
Verdict: Give him one more year to prove himself under new 2026 regulations.
🟢 Yuki Tsunoda: Top-Team Experience + Gasly Chemistry
- Pros: Tsunoda brings experience from Red Bull and a proven friendship with Gasly from their AlphaTauri days. If Red Bull moves on from him to promote Lindblad, Alpine could pick up a fast, battle-hardened driver.
- Cons: Inconsistency remains a concern, and his temperament has improved but not vanished.
Verdict: If Red Bull releases Tsunoda, Alpine would be wise to snatch him up.
🇮🇹 Leonardo Fornaroli: Alpine's Bortoleto 2.0?
- Pros: The current F2 points leader has impressed with maturity, consistency, and four wins. He’s a clean racer with no F1 academy ties—making him free to sign anywhere.
- Cons: No F1 experience. Risky for a midfield team under pressure to deliver.
Verdict: A smart long-term investment, and possibly the most consistent option.
🇬🇧 Luke Browning: High-Risk, High-Reward Rookie
- Pros: Currently 3rd in F2, with a feature race win at Monza and 9 podiums. He beat Oliver Bearman in the Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Young Driver Award and has tested F1 cars with Williams.
- Cons: Still raw and might need a reserve role first. Lacks team backing.
Verdict: If Alpine wants to take a punt, Browning could deliver big—but it’s a gamble.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Stability or Star Potential?
Alpine’s 2025 season has been messy on all fronts—from management shifts to poor car development. The second seat should offer stability, growth potential, and someone who complements Gasly without adding drama.
- If they want to play it safe: Keep Colapinto or sign Tsunoda
- If they want a future star: Take a chance on Fornaroli or Browning
Whatever the decision, it could define Alpine’s place in the 2026 midfield battle.
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