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Alpine has announced the re-signing of significant Franco Colapinto-linked sponsor Mercado Libre on the eve of the F1 season getting underway with the Australian Grand Prix.

Confirmed ahead of practice Friday in Melbourne, the online marketplace will continue supporting the Argentine driver, as it has for much of his motorsport career.

It comes after the brand was conspicuously missing from the A526 at launch, as reported at the time by RacingNews365.

Colapinto shared his appreciation for the relationship upon its renewal, saying: "Starting my third year in Formula 1 is both a huge challenge and a dream come true.

"Each season demands more preparation, more focus, and more ambition, and having the support of Mercado Libre, which believed in me from the very beginning, gives all that effort a very special meaning.

"Today, I feel more experienced and more confident to push forward in this new chapter, ready to start the season in Australia and give everything from the very first lap."

Colapinto has received considerable financial backing during his ascent up the motorsport ladder, and the handshake logo of Mercado Libre is one of the most recognisable sponsors in his portfolio.

"We are proud to continue our partnership with Mercado Libre this season," Alpine executive adviser Flavio Briatore added.

"From the beginning, we found a shared vision based on innovation, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of high performance.

"Their presence strengthens our connection with Latin America, a key region for Formula 1, and we deeply value the company's sustained commitment to our project and to the talent that is part of the team."

Meanwhile, Sean Summers, EVP and CMO of Mercado Libre, reflected on the shared journey.

"Three years ago, we decided to back a young talent who was taking his first steps in Formula 1.

"There were no guarantees, no shortcuts. From day one, we were impressed by his work ethic, his character, and his enormous ambition to reach the highest level. We immediately knew that was where we wanted to be.

"Today, seeing Franco start his third year in the category, firmly established within Alpine, ready to take on new challenges and truly compete against the best in the world, is a tremendous source of pride for all of us who have followed and supported him from the very beginning.

"With this continued support for Franco, Mercado Libre completes its commitment to Latin American talent in Formula 1, and we begin the new season with great enthusiasm."

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