Alpine driver Franco Colapinto has issued a public statement urging his fanbase to cease online abuse directed at other Formula 1 personnel. The Argentinian driver’s plea follows several incidents involving his supporters and their treatment of rival drivers and team members on social media platforms.
Colapinto, in his first full season with Alpine, highlighted that such actions are detrimental to his career. He stated that while he appreciates their support, aggressive criticism of others does not benefit him or his future.
The controversy intensified after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on September 26, 2026. Colapinto was involved in a three-car collision during a safety car restart, which eliminated himself, teammate Pierre Gasly, and McLaren’s Lando Norris.
Norris, the reigning World Champion, publicly stated that Colapinto ‘shouldn’t be in Formula 1’ following the incident and suggested a race ban. Colapinto received a 10-second time penalty, converted to a five-place grid drop for the subsequent Bahrain Grand Prix.
Norris later apologised to Colapinto on September 28, 2026, acknowledging that his initial comments were made in the heat of the moment. He confirmed that they remain friends.
Earlier in the season, Gasly also faced significant online abuse after an incident at the Spanish Grand Prix on September 13, 2026. Gasly inadvertently held up Colapinto, who was on fresher tyres and chasing a points finish.
Gasly revealed that the abuse extended to his family and girlfriend, describing the threats and attacks as ‘disturbing’ for the sport. Colapinto had expressed frustration over the team radio during the race.
Alpine’s Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore, had previously issued an ultimatum to Colapinto’s fans. He threatened a media blackout to Argentinian outlets if the online abuse did not cease.
Briatore, who returned to Alpine in 2024, holds a broad mandate to reshape the team’s competitive and commercial strategy. Alpine transitioned to Mercedes power units for the 2026 season.
The FIA has also condemned online harassment. Following the Dutch Grand Prix on August 25, 2026, FIA stewards were targeted with abuse after penalising Colapinto for infractions under yellow flags.
Colapinto is the first Argentinian driver to score points in a Grand Prix since Carlos Reutemann in 1982. He made his Formula 1 debut with Williams in 2024 before joining Alpine in 2025.
For the 2026 season, Colapinto has accumulated 27 points and holds 12th position in the Drivers’ Championship as of September 19, 2026. He has finished every race this season, with a best result of sixth in Canada.
Colapinto’s statement, delivered via social media, also announced a temporary break from his online accounts. He aims to focus on his racing career and team objectives.
The Formula 1 calendar continues next weekend with the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.
