Franco Colapinto became the first Argentine driver in Formula 1 in over two decades when he made his debut, instantly reigniting a passionate motorsport culture in his home country. His impact was immediate, scoring points and demonstrating the kind of fearless racing that endeared him to fans worldwide.
For 2026, Colapinto takes on his first full season at Alpine. The Argentine brings raw speed and an infectious enthusiasm that has galvanized the team’s fanbase, particularly in Latin America. Under the new regulations, his lack of ingrained habits from previous F1 eras could be an advantage as teams explore unfamiliar territory.
Colapinto’s driving is characterised by late braking, aggressive positioning, and a willingness to fight for every position. He carries the legacy of Juan Manuel Fangio and Carlos Reutemann, and the weight of Argentine expectation only seems to fuel his performances.
Argentine fans benefit from a timezone that aligns well with the Americas-based races. The Sao Paulo Grand Prix in neighbouring Brazil starts at 12:00 ART, and the US races offer afternoon viewing. European races, however, start between 09:00 and 10:00 ART, requiring morning commitment from Buenos Aires.