SUZUKA, Japan – The management team for Alpine driver Franco Colapinto has issued a statement following intense online criticism after a collision with Haas’ Oliver Bearman during the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday. The incident, which saw Bearman crash heavily into the barriers at Spoon Curve, sparked a wave of reaction, but Colapinto’s team is defending the young driver and attributing the crash to the complexities of the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations.
“A race to quickly forget,” Colapinto’s management wrote on social media Tuesday, as reported by multiple sources. “Franco was unlucky with the timing of the Safety Car, which ruined his chances of fighting for points. We also cannot ignore the incident that led to Oliver Bearman’s crash; an incident where Franco was not at fault. It was a consequence of the new regulations regarding energy management, as confirmed in the official FIA statement. Despite this, Franco is receiving unfair criticism and hate. Let’s provide him all the love and support he deserves.”
50G Impact for Bearman
The collision occurred as Colapinto’s Alpine car transitioned into energy recovery mode approaching the high-speed Spoon Curve. This automatically caused significant braking, while Bearman was approaching at full speed. The resulting speed differential forced Bearman to take evasive action, leading to a 50G impact with the barriers. Fortunately, Bearman avoided serious injury, sustaining only bruising to his right knee, according to Haas team reports.
The incident highlights the challenges posed by the 2026 F1 machinery, where energy deployment and recovery are creating significant closing speeds between cars. The FIA has confirmed it will hold meetings next month to review and refine the regulations, addressing the safety concerns raised by the crash. PlanetF1.com reported that Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu placed no blame on either driver for the incident.
The online reaction to the crash was swift and often harsh, with Colapinto becoming the target of abuse. Here’s not the first time the Argentinian driver has faced such backlash, as his passionate fanbase has previously directed criticism towards other competitors. Colapinto’s management team responded with a further statement, emphasizing their support for the driver.
“Franco is in good hands and receiving all the support he needs,” the statement read. “He is stronger than you think and negative comments or hateful words will not affect him. Don’t waste your energy on the haters. Instead, put that energy into supporting Franco. He is surrounded by the right people who ensure he feels safe and happy, so you can rest assured.”
This incident follows a similar situation just two weeks prior, where Haas driver Esteban Ocon received death threats following a collision with Colapinto at the Chinese Grand Prix, as noted by PlanetF1.com. The increasing intensity of online abuse directed at F1 drivers is becoming a serious concern for teams and the sport’s governing body.
RELATED: The Japanese Grand Prix also saw Max Verstappen secure another dominant victory, extending his championship lead. Analysis from Motorsport.com explores the factors behind Verstappen’s performance and the challenges faced by his rivals.
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The Formula 1 season continues next weekend with the Chinese Grand Prix, where teams will hope to implement solutions to address the safety concerns highlighted by the incident in Japan. Fans can expect further updates from the FIA regarding the planned regulatory changes in the coming weeks. Preserve checking Archysport for the latest news and analysis from the world of Formula 1.
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