Alpine Probes Colapinto's Defiance at US GP

At the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Alpine rookie Franco Colapinto defied a direct team order to hold position behind teammate Pierre Gasly, diving past him late while both cars managed fuel and faced pressure from Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto. Colapinto said he was faster on fresher tyres and feared being overtaken, and Gasly said he was surprised by the move. Alpine managing director Steve Nielsen said pit-wall instructions are final, expressed disappointment and confirmed the team will conduct an internal review. The incident highlighted Alpine’s troubled race execution, including a slow pit stop for Gasly and broader difficulties competing on race Sundays. Alpine sits 10th in the Constructors’ Championship and Colapinto remains without points with five races left, increasing scrutiny over his seat. The team said it will put Austin behind them and focus on maximising points in the remaining rounds while addressing the internal matter.