In a stunning development, Franco Colapinto could race in Argentina later this year after schedule changes in Formula One created an unexpected opportunity for a special home exhibition event.
Franco Colapinto will be able to race in Argentina later this year in what is shaping up to be one of the biggest surprises of 2026.
The Argentine driver will be able to fulfill one of his biggest dreams since becoming a Formula 1 driver.
With the hiatus following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to the war in the Middle East, the Argentine will travel to Argentina to race in his homeland.
Two tentative dates are expected in the second half of April to hold the exhibition race in the South American country.
If confirmed, the possibility of Franco Colapinto driving in Argentina would represent a unique moment not only for the driver but also for fans across South America who rarely get the chance to see a current Formula One competitor perform on home soil. Exhibition events often serve as a bridge between the sport and local audiences, offering a glimpse of the speed and spectacle that defines modern Formula 1. At the same time, the unusual circumstances created by the cancellations of the Bahrain Grand Prix and Saudi Arabian Grand Prix have opened a rare window in the schedule. Whether the event ultimately becomes a one-off celebration or sparks deeper conversations about the sport’s presence in the region remains to be seen, but it has already generated significant anticipation among fans and observers alike.
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How much does Franco Colapinto earn at Alpine?
Franco Colapinto and his reported salary at Alpine since his return in the 2025 Formula 1 season have sparked a lot of discussion on social media.
According to information from the AlpineClub_esp account, this is what the Argentine driver is reportedly earning with the French team: "Franco Colapinto's salary at Alpine since Imola: €45,000 per race."
In other words, if the South American driver finishes the top-tier World Championship, he would have earned €810,000. This is far below what other drivers in the series earn.
However, it’s also worth noting that the Latin American driver is backed by major sponsors from Argentina, which strengthens his position both within and outside of Alpine.
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