Colapinto stays penalty-free ahead of qualifying in Imola

With a fresh engine installed ahead of the Imola Grand Prix, concerns arose over whether Colapinto would face a penalty under the current regulations.

However, these changes fall within the regulatory limits of four components per driver for the 2025 season, meaning Colapinto escapes any grid drop. The replacements come as he steps in for Jack Doohan, whose penalty points also transfer over to the Argentine. With a clean slate on machinery but added pressure from inherited penalties, Colapinto will be keen to make the most of his late call-up.

This news follows recent comments from Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s new advisor, who clarified that Colapinto is not on a guaranteed five-race deal, contrary to speculation. Instead, Briatore indicated that the Argentine talent now has an opportunity to prove himself on merit.

When speaking to Sky Sports F1, Briatore commented "Franco will race as much as he needs."

With a fresh power unit package and a chance to impress under pressure, Imola could mark a pivotal moment in Colapinto’s F1 trajectory. Whether he secures more starts beyond this weekend may depend on how well he capitalises on this unexpected opportunity.