Mercado Libre and Franco Colapinto Partnership Renewed

On the eve of the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, which marks the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Franco Colapinto (pictured) sponsor Mercado Libre announced the renewal of its partnership with BWT Alpine Formula One Team, reaffirming its commitment to the most innovative and competitive platforms in global sports.

Following its incorporation as an official sponsor in 2025, the company is now deepening a relationship built on shared values: speed, technology, precision, and continuous improvement. The iconic handshake logo will continue to be featured on the A526 car throughout the new season.

The pinnacle of motorsport represents one of the most advanced environments in technology and real-time analytics. Each race is a laboratory of innovation where every millisecond counts. This culture of precision, execution, and continuous improvement directly connects with Mercado Libre’s DNA and its ambition to compete at the highest level in every market where it operates.

Through sports, the company continues to build emotional connections with millions of people across the region, inspiring new generations who see technology and constant self-improvement as opportunities to compete at the highest level.

Sean Summers, EVP and CMO of Mercado Libre: “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 One, and we begin the new season with great enthusiasm.”

BWT Alpine Formula One Team Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore: “We are proud to continue our partnership with Mercado Libre this season. 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.”

Franco Colapinto, BWT Alpine Formula One Team driver: “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.”

Mercado Libre campaign:
“What’s up? Miss me?”
With that line, Franco Colapinto kicks off a campaign that answers the expectations of millions of Formula 1 fans across Latin America who want to see him race in the A526, featuring the iconic handshake logo. Mercado Libre and BWT Alpine Formula One Team thus confirm a highly anticipated partnership: “Back on track, together”.