Franco Colapinto has confirmed his exit from Williams ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season.
The Argentine was handed his debut in F1 by the Grove-based outfit at the Italian Grand Prix after being drafted in to replace Logan Sargeant. Colapinto went on to score five points in nine races with the team.
Despite having three heavy crashes in Sao Paulo and Las Vegas and costing Williams millions in damages, the 21-year-old had made an impression in the paddock.
Colapinto looked like he would not have a seat for 2025. Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon are locked in long-term at Williams, ultimately closing the door for the Argentine.
Red Bull had been interested in Colapinto but talks quickly dwindled. Alpine were heavily linked with Colapinto, with Flavio Briatore working tirelessly to get a deal done ahead of 2025.
The Argentine’s move to Alpine was confirmed on Thursday, which will see him become their test and reserve driver for this season behind Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan.
Argentine fans hail James Vowles the ‘literal GOAT’ after sending a farewell message to Franco Colapinto
Williams team principal James Vowles was key in getting Colapinto’s career up and running and putting him in the spotlight, ultimately leading to his move to Alpine.
Posting on his Instagram account, Vowles shared a touching farewell message to Colapinto, stating it was a ‘pleasure’ to watch him develop and wishing him the best for the future.
And Argentine fans flooded the comments section to heap praise and gratitude onto the Williams boss for his support to Colapinto.
One fan wrote: “Forever Uncle James,” while another added:“Forever Uncle James!!!! Thank you. Thank you, Thank you!!! We will never forget the chance you gave us all!!!!”
One user is anticipating Colapinto’s first race win and hopes Vowles gets a mention from the Argentine: “Thank you dear TIO JAMES. The day Franco wins his first race I hope he dedicates it to you.”
Another has ever higher aspirations for Colapinto as they hope he makes a return to Williams and wins the championship: “Thank you James!!!. I hope Franco returns to Williams and goes out as a champion there!!”
One fan said:“We love you Uncle James, thank you for taking care of Franco so much and for helping to fulfil his dream!!” While another gave Vowes the highest honour: “Thank you, Tío James for everything. You’re the literal GOAT.”
Jack Doohan under pressure from Franco Colapinto to keep his seat at Alpine
Colapinto was the second reserve driver to be announced by Alpine on Thursday, coming after the signing of Ryo Hirakawa.
The duo join Paul Aron behind the scenes at the Enstone-based team, signing the Formula 2 talent after his release from Mercedes. These acquisitions have placed more pressure on Doohan who is yet to really prove himself in F1.
READ MORE: Who is Alpine reserve driver Franco Colapinto? Everything to know
The Aussie was afforded his debut at the 2024 season finale in Abu Dhabi, which left Jolyon Palmer underwhelmed by Doohan’s performance. While he has only had one race in his career, the 21-year-old is the driver under the most pressure in 2025.
Alpine have stressed Doohan is their man for this season as they intend to start him and Gasly for the opening race in Melbourne. But reports have suggested Doohan is only contracted for six races, giving him limited time to develop and prove his worth.
While Doohan knows Alpine inside and out with his role in the simulator last year, Colapinto has a huge advantage in race experience. The Argentine could find himself back in an F1 seat sooner than expected if the Aussie fails to impress.
