The conflict between Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto after the Spanish Grand Prix added a new chapter on social media. After the French driver reported receiving insults and threats against him and his family, some Argentine fans decided to change the tone of their messages and began to fill their posts with ironic praise.
The situation arose after the sporting confrontation between the two Alpine drivers during the final laps of the race held in Madrid. Gasly was on used tires and needed to pit, while Colapinto needed to overtake him as Oscar Piastri was getting closer.
The Argentine repeatedly asked his team to let him pass his teammate, but Alpine did not order the position swap. Finally, Gasly pitted, and the episode led to a heated discussion among fans on social media.
Gasly reported threats against his family
The criticism towards the Frenchman went beyond his on-track performance. According to Gasly, some messages also involved his girlfriend and other family members, a situation that was condemned by the FIA, Alpine, and Flavio Briatore.
The head of Alpine specifically targeted those who attacked the French driver and requested that support for Colapinto remain within the bounds of respect.
“I say this especially to the Argentines, because there is no problem with Italians or anyone else. If you want to support Franco, do it respectfully and loyally, not as I see on social media. If this continues, there will come a time when Franco will stop talking to everyone,” warned Briatore.
