Colapinto Poised for Red Bull Switch

Ralf Schumacher suggests Franco Colapinto may soon join Red Bull, fueling speculation about the young talent’s F1 future.

Franco Colapinto appears to be on course to join Red Bull, according to former F1 driver and consultant Ralf Schumacher. The question remains, however: will it be Red Bull Racing or RB F1?

The impressive rookie is set to lose his Williams seat at the end of the year, but early rumors suggested the team might retain him for 2025 while facilitating Carlos Sainz’s move to Red Bull.

Red Bull and Williams have firmly dismissed this theory, confirming that Sainz will test the 2024 car during the post-Abu Dhabi sessions before competing on the grid next season.

Behind the scenes, intense negotiations have taken place between Williams, Colapinto’s management, and potential alternative teams for 2025, including Red Bull and Alpine F1.

Schumacher, however, claimed to already know where the Argentine driver will land.

“There was significant interest in him, not just from Helmut Marko. Based on my information, I’m certain Colapinto will join Red Bull,” he stated.

Williams boss James Vowles has reportedly demanded $20 million to release Colapinto from his 2025 contract, a sum Red Bull could potentially cover thanks to the young driver’s massive new commercial appeal in Argentina.

“Colapinto brings an entire portfolio of sponsors. He will help secure major deals.”

Some believe Colapinto could replace Sergio Perez, though Schumacher admits a spot for the Argentine at RB F1, Red Bull’s junior team, is also a possibility.

“That’s a good question. I don’t think Red Bull knows for certain either.”

“Internally, the dynamic between Christian Horner and Helmut Marko is still not ideal. Then there’s Max’s father, who isn’t exactly thrilled with the situation and has approved a partnership with Colapinto. It’s exciting to see how this will unfold, but I’m almost certain Colapinto will end up in one of those cars.”

Schumacher acknowledges that a young driver like Colapinto represents a risk for Red Bull Racing, even if he’s impressed by how quickly rookies adapt.

“But Formula 1 is no walk in the park. We see that with (Oscar) Piastri, who’s been a bit underwhelming lately. It’s not just about stepping in and everything falling into place. You have to maintain the pace, raise it. It’s not as easy as it sometimes seems.”