Team orders or rookie grit? Colapinto's last lap gamble on Gasly sparks Alpine drama in Austin

 

In the closing stages of the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Alpine instructed Franco Colapinto to hold position behind team mate Pierre Gasly, who was struggling with tyre wear and fuel conservation. Colapinto, running on fresher tyres and sensing an opportunity, responded over team radio, said: “Wait, what?! Hold positions?! But he’s slow.” Alpine’s directive was intended to minimise risk between team mates, especially with both drivers outside the points and under pressure from Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto. Gasly had pitted early and was vulnerable, while Colapinto had more pace but was expected to prioritise team harmony.

On the penultimate lap, Colapinto lunged down the inside at turn one, overtaking Gasly to secure P17. Gasly later dropped behind Bortoleto, finishing P19 and last among classified runners. Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen expressed disappointment, confirming the team would review the incident internally. Colapinto later backtracked, stating: “Instructions by the team must always be followed no mater what,” ahead of the Mexico Grand Prix.

Colapinto’s move for P17 had no impact on the championship standing but it showcased his race craft, assertiveness and refusal to settle even when instructed to hold position behind Gasly. His radio protest, “Wait, What?! Hold positions?! But he’s show,” captured the frustration and urgency of a rookie eager to prove himself. Nielsen confirmed the team was “disappointed” would review the incident internally citing concerns over communication clarity plus protocol adherence. Gasly, who was struggling with tyre wear and fuel conservation had been to hold off Sauber’s Bortoleto. Colapinto’s move disrupted that pan and Gasly ultimately finished last.

📸 Imagery courtesy of BWT Alpine Formula One Team