Franco Colapinto has caused an early red flag on the opening day of Formula 1 pre-season testing.
The team were slow to take to the track and when they did the Argentine’s Alpine stopped early on with a mechanical issue.
It comes after Alpine reportedly experienced issues in the Barcelona shakedown, stopping on the first day of testing also.
Despite the issue the Argentine’s A526 was recovered and repaired in enough time to allow Colapinto to return to the track and complete a further eight laps.
The Alpine driver finished the season at the rear of the pack with 28 laps, the least of any driver.
Specific causes of the stoppage remain unknown yet Alpine have continued to experience issues with their Mercedes engine since the Barcelona shakedown.
Colapinto was only scheduled to drive in the morning part of the test with teammate Pierre Gasly taking over in the afternoon.
Mileage will be critical throughout the test as drivers look to gain a greater understanding of the new 2026 regulations ahead of the season opener in Melbourne.
Feature image courtesy of Formula 1