Franco Colapinto, the young Argentine driver who made his Formula 1 debut in 2024 with Williams, has been officially confirmed as Mercedes’ new signing for the 2026 season. After spending 2025 as a test driver for Alpine, Colapinto has now secured a full-time seat with one of the most prestigious teams in the sport.

This move comes amid significant changes in the F1 driver market. Alpine, for example, announced that its second seat for 2026 would be contested between Colapinto and Estonian driver Paul Aron. Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive advisor, stated that the final decision would be based on the performances of both drivers in the upcoming races (Reuters).

Mercedes, on the other hand, has chosen to add Colapinto to its 2026 lineup, placing confidence in his talent and potential to contribute to the team’s success in Formula 1’s new era. This signing also reflects Mercedes’ long-term strategy of strengthening the team with young prospects capable of leading car development in the coming years.

Colapinto’s arrival at Mercedes also coincides with a wave of changes in other teams. Cadillac, for instance, has confirmed its Formula 1 debut in 2026 with Sergio “Checo” Pérez and Valtteri Bottas as its main drivers (eltrecetv). These moves are reshaping the F1 grid, increasing competition and opening more opportunities for young talents.

With this signing, Colapinto joins an exclusive list of Argentine drivers who have competed in Formula 1, proudly carrying his country’s colors in the world’s top motorsport category. His meteoric rise — from his 2024 debut to joining Mercedes in 2026 — stands as a testament to his skill, determination, and the support of his team and sponsors.

As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Colapinto and his performance with Mercedes. Motorsport fans in Argentina and around the world eagerly await to see how this young talent rises to the challenge of competing at the very highest level in Formula 1.

This signing is not only a personal achievement for Colapinto but also a milestone for Argentine motorsport, which continues to showcase its presence and competitiveness in the elite of global racing.