Alpine’s New Contract, Argentina’s Big Opportunity

Alpine announced the contract extension of Franco Colapinto during the São Paulo Grand Prix weekend, immediately fueling speculation about Argentina’s potential return to the Formula 1 calendar.

According to Joe Saward, the Argentine driver’s continued presence in Alpine may be linked to a broader strategy, as the country is actively preparing to bring top-level motorsport back. In Buenos Aires, a full circuit redevelopment plan is already in place, with approximately $110 million allocated for modernization. Construction is set to begin at the end of the month: the existing pit buildings will be demolished, and a new complex will be built under the supervision of Formula 1’s chief architect, Hermann Tilke.

The initial goal is to host MotoGP in 2027, after which, with the involvement of Liberty Media, the circuit could be further upgraded to meet Formula 1 standards by 2028.

An Argentine Grand Prix would fit naturally into the calendar, as it could be paired with the São Paulo race reducing logistical costs and enabling two South American rounds to be held back-to-back.