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Colapinto Accepts Runner-Up Slot to Sainz at Williams

Colapinto Reveals: ‘Second to Sainz for Williams F1 Role’

17/08/2024

Colapinto disclosed he was second choice for Williams, yet gracefully acknowledges the decision.

Franco Colapinto, a member of the Williams Racing Academy, has disclosed that he engaged in discussions with Williams F1 regarding a potential signing as a race driver for the 2025 season. Nonetheless, he understands why James Vowles’ team has opted for Carlos Sainz to join forces with Alex Albon.

“The hope is always there, and it’s the last thing one loses,” Colapinto told DSports. “I felt close. I believe I was the second choice behind Carlos, and of course, I fully grasp why they chose Carlos.”

“It’s no issue for me. I’m very happy for the team that a driver with extensive experience and talent, coming from a team like Ferrari, is going there. But I have no doubts that other opportunities will arise.”

“Williams is a major team. I already knew that if Carlos signed with Williams, it was entirely normal for me to be set aside, and that would suit the team very well. They are two great drivers, Alex and Carlos, and they make a very good team, so it’s a positive for Williams.”

“Both are highly experienced drivers. Carlos comes from Ferrari, and it’s clear that signing a rookie would have been much cheaper, but it’s also a bit risky, so I’m hopeful that another opportunity will present itself soon.”

Nevertheless, the Argentine remains optimistic and hopes to establish himself as an evident choice for Williams: “We are going to work hard so that by 2026, Carlos will have to move on. It’s clear I’ve dreamed of this and my managers have worked hard to get me to Williams.”

While awaiting an opportunity in Formula 1, Colapinto continues to compete in F2 and hopes to end the season positively, after a somewhat disappointing start to the year 2025 for both him and his team.

“I’ve had difficulties in the last few races due to factors beyond my control. I was driving well, but it’s true that I didn’t perform well at Spa and in Hungary because of minor team errors.”

“We need to continue working; I also made mistakes in the early races of the year and they have made mistakes now, so it’s a team effort and we win and lose together.”

Colapinto Accepts Runner-Up Slot to Sainz at Williams Colapinto Accepts Runner-Up Slot to Sainz at Williams

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