Franco Colapinto, the Argentine Alpine driver, has called on his fans to embrace positive support and stop abusing Formula 1 drivers, team members and their families.
In a video posted on Instagram, Colapinto explained that some fans believe they are defending him through such behavior.
However, he stressed that it actually harms him and his future, calling on everyone to change this conduct.
His message came after his teammate Pierre Gasly faced online harassment following the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid.
The abuse began after Gasly prevented Colapinto from overtaking him during the race, then extended to target his family and girlfriend.
A call for mutual respect
Lando Norris also faced criticism after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, over comments that some saw as questioning Colapinto’s right to his seat.
Norris later apologized, while the Argentine driver in turn faced abuse linked to the incident.
For its part, the Alpine team condemned these practices, stressing that mistakes made during competition do not justify hatred or insults. It affirmed the need to respect all members of the championship community, regardless of race results.
In closing his message, Colapinto acknowledged that he may have been slow to address this issue with his fans.
He also thanked them for their continuous support, explaining that their encouragement motivates him to improve his performance and achieve more success.
He expressed hope that fans would translate their affection into positive support that respects competitors and their families. In doing so, he issued a clear call to keep sporting enthusiasm within the bounds of respect, and to make fan support a source of encouragement for all participants in the championship.
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