Alpine vows strict driver ban after alarming incident streak

Alpine has confirmed its commitment to support junior driver Nicola Lacorte following a string of incidents that led to his race ban. The 18-year-old Italian, part of the Alpine Academy and racing for DAMS in the Formula 3 championship, received 18 penalty points within just two weekends.

Seven points were issued during the Monaco round for actions that included causing a collision and ignoring a black flag. In Spain, Lacorte was penalized two more times for causing collisions, along with two separate penalties for speeding behind the safety car. For context on the Spanish race, see the details about the F1 Flexi Wing Spanish GP.

This accumulation of points means Lacorte is now forced to miss the upcoming FIA Formula 3 event at Austria’s Red Bull Ring on June 28 and 29. DAMS, his current team, is searching for a replacement driver to take over during his absence.

According to Alpine’s official statement, the team supports fair and safe racing, and they respect the stewards’ decisions that keep all competitors safe on track. Alpine outlined its plan to work closely with Lacorte and his management, analyzing each incident that contributed to the penalties.

The team explained that they will provide ongoing support and expertise to help guide the young driver. The aim is to help reshape Lacorte’s approach and ensure he develops positive habits as he continues in the Alpine Academy program.

Nicola Lacorte’s situation comes during a critical point in his first season of international single-seater racing. After showing promise earlier in the season, his campaign has been disrupted by these disciplinary setbacks. The combination of events recalls incidents in other racing series, such as incidents at Monaco, similar to those involving drivers like Sainz during the Monaco GP.

The combination of the Monaco and Spain rounds brought his penalty total far over the limit, triggering an automatic ban per FIA regulations. The team’s intervention highlights the care top teams invest in nurturing their prospects, even when faced with challenges.

The upcoming Austria round will mark the first time Lacorte is absent from the F3 grid this year. With the team now finalizing plans for a temporary replacement, attention will soon turn to how Lacorte learns from this break and prepares for a return.

Alpine expressed optimism that their support will help Nicola develop into a safer and more mature racer. As the season continues, both Alpine and DAMS will keep assessing Lacorte’s progress and commitment.

The focus remains on helping the young Italian channel his speed and talent in the right direction, with the hope that he can avoid future penalties and return stronger for the rounds ahead.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.