Did Alpine Driver Franco Colapinto Crash During Tyre Test at Hungaroring?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Franco Colapinto crashed during a Pirelli tyre test.
- No serious injuries reported following the incident.
- The crash occurred at Turn 11, known for its difficulty.
- Colapinto's future with Alpine is uncertain amidst performance struggles.
- The test focuses on new 2026 tyre prototypes.
New Delhi, Aug 6 (NationPress) Alpine driver Franco Colapinto, facing immense pressure, experienced a crash during a Pirelli tyre testing session at the Hungaroring on Wednesday. Fortunately, he underwent a brief medical evaluation and was found to be without serious injuries.
The incident transpired on the second day of testing, as teams were engaged in assessing Pirelli’s 2026 tyre prototypes, a pivotal part of a significant regulatory shift set to alter the landscape of Formula 1 next season.
Colapinto lost control at Turn 11—a swift 142-mph right turn notorious for its limited run-off—and was promptly taken to the circuit’s medical center. After the examination, Alpine confirmed that Colapinto was cleared to continue.
“This morning, during day two of Pirelli tyre testing at the Hungaroring, Franco Colapinto had an incident at Turn 11,” the team stated. “He was assessed on-site at the medical center and is doing fine.”
This crash occurs during a crucial period for Colapinto, who joined Alpine on loan from Williams earlier this year. Since taking over from Jack Doohan mid-season, the 21-year-old has struggled to adapt to the A524, failing to earn any points alongside Pierre Gasly.
His lackluster performances have sparked speculation regarding his future, with potential replacements such as reserve drivers Doohan and Paul Aron, as well as Mercedes backup Valtteri Bottas.
Ironically, this crash followed what had been Colapinto's most successful weekend in Alpine colors. Just days prior at the Hungarian Grand Prix, he outqualified and finished ahead of Gasly—marking his first major triumph of the season.
Turn 11, where the accident occurred, is known as one of the toughest corners on the calendar due to its high-speed nature and limited run-off area. Alpine has not provided specific details about the crash.
Colapinto was initially selected by Alpine after impressing during nine races with Williams in the latter half of 2024, where he scored five points and demonstrated potential as a future F1 contender.
The two-day Pirelli test at the Hungaroring aims to trial narrower 2026-spec tyres, designed to enhance mechanical grip and reduce tyre wear under the new technical regulations.