Alpine Considering Alex Dunne to Take Colapinto’s Seat

At the Monza press conference, Franco Colapinto appeared more tense than relaxed perhaps for good reason. The Argentine once again failed to score points, finishing at the back of the field on both Saturday and Sunday in Italy. With Pierre Gasly’s contract recently extended, Colapinto’s future at Alpine looks increasingly uncertain.

According to the Japanese outlet Autosport Web, the team has already identified a potential replacement in 19-year-old Alex Dunne. Currently competing in Formula 2 with Rodin Motorsport and a member of McLaren’s junior academy, the Irish driver is regarded as a promising talent, despite slipping to fifth in the standings following a difficult run of races.

Rumors suggest Alpine has reached an agreement with McLaren to “loan” Dunne for one or two seasons. He is expected to begin TPC testing in the A522 in the near future, gaining valuable mileage and preparing for a possible Formula 1 debut in 2026.

Nevertheless, the team’s strategy raises questions. Previous experiments with young drivers have not yielded the desired results Jack Doohan was left without a seat, and now Colapinto faces the same risk. At the same time, Alpine has another option in Mick Schumacher, who has been working with the team in endurance racing, has 43 Grand Prix starts to his name, and remains determined to return to Formula 1.