Steve Nielsen says Franco Colapinto must earn Alpine's 2027 seat.

Steve Nielsen said Franco Colapinto is improving but still has to prove he should stay with Alpine after his contract expires at the end of 2026. Pierre Gasly already has a multi-year deal with the team.

Colapinto has scored 18 of Alpine's 60 points this season, with Gasly contributing 42. Nielsen pointed to better race consistency and stronger comparisons with Gasly, including performances in Miami and China.