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Alpine Hits Back: Clarkson's "Argentinian" Joke Sparks F1 Controversy

Alpine Hits Back: Clarkson's "Argentinian" Joke Sparks F1 Controversy

Hassan
Hassan
Published: Oct 25, 2026

Alpine has publicly backed Franco Colapinto after Jeremy Clarkson joked on live TV that the driver had received a grid penalty 'for being Argentinian'

Alpine Hits Back: Clarkson's "Argentinian" Joke Sparks F1 Controversy

Jeremy Clarkson has once again ignited a firestorm of controversy with a tasteless remark on live television, prompting an immediate and unequivocal response from the Alpine F1 Team. The outspoken personality's comments regarding driver Franco Colapinto have not only reopened old wounds but also forced a team to vocally defend its athlete.

Key Takeaways from the F1 Controversy:

  • Jeremy Clarkson joked on Sky Sports F1 that Franco Colapinto's grid penalty was "for being Argentinian."
  • Clarkson referenced a highly controversial **Top Gear** episode from **2014** involving the **Falklands War**.
  • **Alpine F1 Team** promptly issued a strong statement, publicly supporting their driver Franco Colapinto.
  • The incident occurred during the **United States Grand Prix** weekend, ahead of qualifying.

The incident unfolded during the **United States Grand Prix** weekend at the Circuit of the Americas, where Clarkson, a long-time supporter of the Enstone-based squad, made an appearance on the Sky Sports F1 broadcast. When discussing Alpine's prospects, he veered into a deeply insensitive territory.

Clarkson's Ill-Advised Jibe

Asked about **Alpine's** performance, **Jeremy Clarkson** quipped that **Franco Colapinto** had received a grid penalty