Franco Colapinto calls on supporters to cease the harassment: “Your actions aren't aiding me or my prospects.”

“I think we overlook that it doesn't originate solely from Argentinians,” Colapinto remarked. “While a significant portion does come from them, I completely agree, [but] it’s not just them. They are highly passionate and offer me tremendous support. Their actions can be detrimental. They can be harmful at times.

“However, this issue arises globally from various fanbases. I’m not sure if we’re acknowledging that. I receive a lot of it. Yet, no one ever mentions it.”

On Thursday, the Argentine made his most emphatic statement to date in an effort to temper his supporters’ fervor – he explicitly told them that they ‘sometimes crossed the line’ and ‘were not benefiting him or his future’.

“Hello everyone, there’s something crucial that I’ve needed to discuss with you for a while,” Colapinto stated in a Spanish-language video shared on Instagram. “I probably should have addressed this with all of you sooner, but this is a matter that needs attention, something we must change and improve.

Franco Colapinto, Alpine

“I will always be thankful, and I genuinely feel incredibly lucky, to have had your support from the very start.

“I’m grateful for all the encouragement you provide, for how you assist me in achieving results, and for your constant motivation to reach greater heights. You help me and the team secure our results, race after race, day in and day out, as we train and strive to improve. I sincerely appreciate all of that.

“I know it fills you with immense pride when I perform well, when I accumulate points for myself and the team. I have always been deeply thankful for that support.

“But at times, we go overboard. Rather than supporting me, we end up criticizing others and attacking fellow drivers, colleagues, my teammates, my mechanics, my engineers – those I collaborate with every single day.

“I understand you think you’re defending me, but in reality, you’re doing the opposite. You’re not aiding me or my future.”

Colapinto’s immediate future is secure, as the 23-year-old secured a new contract with Alpine for the 2027 season back in August. He currently stands 12th in the 2026 standings with 27 points, while teammate Gasly is in 10th with 41 points.