Franco Colapinto returns to Alpine after sabotage claims denied

Alpine confirmed Argentine driver Franco Colapinto participated in a 2026‑spec filming day at Silverstone, the first time he's been back since the team dismissed sabotage rumors. The session readies him for the Miami Grand Prix and a Buenos Aires roadshow.

Why it matters:

• Sabotage rumors hurt morale; Alpine’s open letter reassures sponsors and defends Colapinto.
• Closing the gap to Pierre Gasly is vital for Alpine’s 2026 points fight.
• The filming day yields live data on the Mercedes‑powered A526, helping setup before upcoming races.

The details:

• Silverstone session on a damp Wednesday delivered ~30 laps, captured by on‑board cameras for sponsor footage.
• Alpine’s A526 uses a Mercedes engine; the team says Colapinto and Gasly have identical equipment except minor gearbox tweaks in China.
• Alpine’s open letter condemned online abuse, denied sabotage, and emphasized equal treatment for Colapinto.

What's next:

• Colapinto heads to Miami, aiming for quicker qualifying laps to narrow the gap with Gasly.
• Alpine will showcase the 2026 car at a Buenos Aires roadshow on April 26.
• The team joins Mercedes and McLaren for a two‑day Nürburgring tyre test, while Red Bull and Ferrari keep developing.