Franco Colapinto’s return to the driver’s seat at Monza has ignited quite a buzz, not just for the simple fact that he was back on track, but due to swirling rumors about his performance compared to fellow Alpine reserve Paul Aron.
Franco Colapinto recently took on a private test organized by Alpine at Monza, driving the 2023 Alpine A523. Reports from Motorsport.com claimed that Colapinto managed to outpace Aron, a former Formula 2 rival, by half a second in identical run plans. Additionally, it was suggested that during their respective afternoon race runs, Colapinto lapped seven tenths faster than Aron.
However, according to PlanetF1.com, these comparisons are not entirely accurate. The site highlighted factors like varying engine settings, track temperatures, wind directions, and track evolution, which make precise performance comparisons challenging. Under these circumstances, it’s difficult to declare Colapinto’s performance as definitively better.
Despite the reported lap timings, Aron’s performance during the test was said to have impressed Alpine. Known for his skill and determination, the Estonian, who joined Alpine as one of four reserves after a year in Formula 2 with Hitech, is poised for FP1 appearances this year. Aron’s achievements in F2, which include a win and multiple podiums, underscore his capability, and he has the support of Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes.
Oakes has spoken highly of Aron, noting his impressive rookie year in Formula 2 where he finished third. Although Aron faced challenges such as mistakes and team errors at Spa, he has consistently demonstrated resilience and talent, particularly after being dropped by Mercedes. Oakes’s praise for Aron highlights the competitive edge both he and Colapinto bring to the Alpine team.
Amidst the Monza test discussions, Jack Doohan’s recent crash at the Japanese Grand Prix casts a shadow over his future within the team. While Doohan was unhurt in the high-speed incident, the situation has fueled speculation about his position alongside Colapinto.
This confluence of testing outcomes and racing incidents leaves Alpine with interesting choices moving forward, not just for test allocations, but potentially for future race seats.
Franco Colapinto’s Monza test has sparked intrigue and speculation, with varying reports on how his performance stacks up against Paul Aron. While exact comparisons are muddied by numerous factors, both drivers have shown significant promise and are poised to make their mark within Alpine. As the season progresses, Alpine’s lineup dynamics are sure to be closely watched, with Colapinto, Aron, and Doohan each vying for opportunities to shine.
