The rumors reached a fever pitch after a sponsor’s offhand comment was broadcast live, leading to a speculation that the Argentine reserve driver Franco Colapinto will be taking part in the race weekend in Imola with Alpine.

How the Rumor Started

The latest round of speculation began when Horacio Marin, president and CEO of Colapinto sponsor YPF, appeared on Argentine television. Asked directly about when Colapinto would make his official F1 debut with Alpine, Marin initially said he did not know.

However, unaware his microphone was still live, Marin was overheard saying “in Imola,” a remark that quickly spread across motorsport media and fueled talk of an imminent debut.

Marin later backtracked on his comment, explaining that he has no inside information about Colapinto’s schedule with Alpine and that his statement was more wishful thinking than a factual announcement. 

What Could “Debut” Mean?

The term “debut” has added to the confusion. While some interpreted Marin’s comment as a sign that Colapinto might replace Jack Doohan in a race seat, others believe it is more likely that Alpine could give Colapinto an outing in one of the practice sessions at Imola, perhaps as part of the team’s young driver allocation.

Under current F1 rules, teams are required to give rookie drivers opportunities in free practice sessions. Colapinto, who joined Alpine as a reserve driver after a nine-race stint with Williams in 2024, is eligible for such an appearance.

Alpine has already used a reserve driver in a practice session this year, with Ryo Hirakawa taking part in FP1 at the Japanese Grand Prix. This means the team has some flexibility in how it manages its rookie driver requirements, and a Colapinto practice run at Imola remains a possibility.

Alpine’s Current Lineup and Colapinto’s Status

Jack Doohan, Alpine’s current race driver, has yet to score a point in his rookie season, while teammate Pierre Gasly has been the only one to bring in points for the team so far. Despite ongoing speculation about Doohan’s future, Alpine has publicly stated its support for the Australian, and there has been no official confirmation that a race seat swap is imminent.

Colapinto, meanwhile, has already made history as the first Argentine to race in F1 since 2001, scoring points during his nine-race run with Williams last year. He joined Alpine as a reserve and development driver for 2025 and has participated in private testing for the team.

While the moment has certainly set the rumor mill spinning, there is no official confirmation that Franco Colapinto will make his Alpine debut at Imola, whether in a race seat or a practice session, but hopes remain high across the paddock.