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Franco Colapinto is one of many drivers in Formula 1 searching for a contract extension. The Argentine’s future has been a subject of debate in the media speca for some time. At various points over the last twelve months, Alpine’s Flavio has left Colapinto’s future in doubt. However, the picture has become clearer for the 23-year-old’s future – as Alpine come closer to making their final decision for 2027. Colapinto does enough to earn new deal Colapinto’s journey to Formula 1 was an unusual. The Argentine made his debut in usual circumstances, replacing former Williams driver mid-season in Monza. Initially, there were doubts across the paddock about his ability. These questions were quickly silenced in just his second race, with Colapinto securing points for Williams at the Baku circuit. The 23-year-old continued to impress, with even Red Bull considering his services for the 2025 season – as they evaluated potential replacements for the outgoing Sergio Perez. Once Red Bull was ruled out, it was Alpine who made the move for Colapinto. Williams could not commit to keeping the Argentine, having already committed to Carlos Sainz on a multi-year deal. Regardless, Colapinto still managed to secure a full-time seat in Formula 1. Of course, earning a seat is one thing, but keeping that seat is quite another. Under the supervision of Flavio Briatore, there has been no shortage of pressure on Colapinto’s shoulders. Throughout last season, the Alpine team principal emphasised that he needed to see improvements from the #43 car. With an established an well-rated Pierre Gasly as a reference, there was nowhere for Colapinto to hide. Still, the Argentine ended the season strongly. Although Alpine lacked the pace for either driver to secure noteworthy results, Colapinto’s race pace was similar to that of his French teammate – an impressive indicator for a young driver. Heading into this year, however, there was an expectation that the driver market would be relatively unpredictable and potentially create some surprises for someone like Colapinto. It was only a month ago that Fernando Alonso was linked to an Alpine seat. Despite these forecasts, the driver market – at least for now – is looking more straightforward than first anticipated. Colapinto is expected to continue at Alpine in 2027, with his level of performance sufficient to stay with the team for another season. As a young driver with potential to grow and significant commercial backing, there are no obvious alternatives for Briatore’s team. Although nothing is confirmed, Colapinto’s extension is something to expect over the coming weeks and months. Alpine search for stability Since Fernando Alonso’s departure in 2022, Alpine have made several driver changes. Whilst some were more justifiable than others, none of these swaps detracted from the French team’s core issue – a lack of performance. Having made the switch to Mercedes engines for 2026, there are no excuses for Alpine to hide behind. They have the best power unit on the grid, and must therefore look internally if they are to climb the field. In this sense, Flavio Briatore has been uninterested in returning to the team’s previous tendency on placing blame on the drivers. For now, all eyes are on Alpine’s technical department to add more performance to the A526.