Formula 1 is getting ready to roar into action at Imola’s iconic Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, and Alpine F1 has set social media ablaze with its secret weapon: Franco Colapinto. The young Argentinian driver, just 21 years old, has become the center of attention after being confirmed as a starter alongside Pierre Gasly for the next five races, starting with the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix on May 18. With an explosive new video on Instagram, Alpine has unleashed a wave of enthusiasm among fans, and Colapinto appears to be outshining even his experienced French teammate.

Franco Colapinto’s story is one that inspires. After bursting into Formula 1 in 2024 with Williams, where he competed in nine races and scored five points, the driver from Pilar was left without a starting seat for 2025. However, his talent did not go unnoticed. Alpine signed him as a reserve driver in January, and now, after a successful start for Jack Doohan, the French team has decided to give him the opportunity to shine as a starter. The decision, driven by executive advisor Flavio Briatore, has generated enormous expectations, especially in Argentina, where Colapinto is a rising star.

Alpine’s official announcement, published on May 7, not only confirmed the lineup change but also sparked a social media storm. A recent video on Alpine’s official Instagram, starring Colapinto, shows the Argentine preparing for Imola with contagious energy. The images, which capture him training in the simulator and testing an A523 single-seater at Zandvoort, have racked up thousands of likes and comments in a matter of hours. Fans, especially those from Latin America, have been generous with praise, with phrases like “Come on, baby!” and “The 43 is back!” flooding the post.

Pierre Gasly, Alpine’s number one driver, has been a key figure for the team, scoring seven points so far in the 2025 season. However, in the run-up to the Imola Grand Prix, attention has shifted to his new teammate. Although Gasly expressed his excitement about returning to Imola, a circuit he describes as “old school” and one of his favorites, his message has gone almost unnoticed amid the excitement generated by Colapinto. “I’ve been working in the simulator and with the team to prepare. The goal is to score points,” Gasly commented. But on social media, it’s the Argentine who’s stealing the headlines.

The contrast is striking. While Gasly, a veteran with more than 150 Grands Prix titles, maintains a more reserved profile, Colapinto radiates freshness and charisma. His connection with fans, especially in Latin America, has been a key factor for Alpine, which seeks to capitalize on the growing interest in the region. According to analysts, Colapinto’s arrival could boost viewership on ESPN Latin America, as happened in 2024 during his debut at Monza.

Imola is no ordinary circuit for Colapinto. The Argentine has a brilliant track record at the venue, with victories in Formula 3 (2022) and Formula 2 (2024). “It’s a legendary circuit, with incredible corners. I’m looking forward to driving an F1 car there,” he said in an Alpine statement. His previous experience and his recent test at Zandvoort with a 2023 car position him as a candidate to surprise, even against Gasly, who is still searching for consistency in a competitive but inconsistent Alpine A525.

The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix marks the start of a triple header (Imola, Monaco, Spain), a test of fire for Colapinto. With a team in transition following the resignation of its boss, Oliver Oakes, and the arrival of Briatore as interim leader, expectations are sky-high. “Franco is one of the best young talents in motorsport,” said Briatore, who has placed a strong bet on the Argentine.

Alpine’s social media strategy has not only boosted Colapinto’s popularity but also reinforced the team’s image as an innovative and fan-friendly team. The hashtag #VuelveEl43 has gone viral, and posts on social media highlight Argentinians’ excitement at seeing their compatriot back on the grid. This fervor not only benefits Alpine in terms of exposure but could also translate into a financial boost, with sponsors such as YPF and Mercado Libre supporting the driver.

As Imola approaches, one thing is clear: Franco Colapinto isn’t just a driver, he’s a phenomenon. With Gasly as his teammate and the backing of a passionate fan base, the Argentinian is ready to write a new chapter in his career. 1,300 Instagram likes aren’t enough for this article. Share and let us know what you think in the comments! Do you think Colapinto can overtake Gasly at Imola?