Horner Considered Colapinto for Red Bull’s Future Lineup

Red Bull and Christian Horner seriously considered Franco Colapinto, showing genuine interest in his potential, says his manager.

Franco Colapinto’s manager confirmed that Red Bull showed serious interest in the Argentine before he joined Alpine F1.

Colapinto was announced as Alpine’s new test and reserve driver for the upcoming season, with the French team securing his services for at least five years.

The Argentine’s exceptional performances with Williams in 2024 also caught the attention of Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who considered pairing Colapinto with Max Verstappen.

Liam Lawson was ultimately promoted to Red Bull, while Isack Hadjar was handed the seat at Racing Bulls.

“Christian clearly showed genuine interest in Franco, who could have joined Red Bull either as Max’s teammate or in Red Bull’s second team,” confirmed Maria Catarineu.

“And like other team principals, he wanted to learn more. He wanted to understand Franco’s contractual situation with Williams and discuss it with James (Vowles).”

“The issue with the Red Bull path was that, for various reasons, it didn’t materialize.”

“First of all, Red Bull has a board, a very strong academy, with drivers already waiting in line, and it didn’t work out.”

“But yes, Christian really wanted to understand Franco’s situation for the future.”

It’s possible that Red Bull was ultimately deterred by the idea that, even after the five-year loan period agreed with Alpine, Colapinto might still have to return to Williams.

“That’s a possibility,” she admitted. “But in five years, anything can happen.”

There are rumors that some of Colapinto’s Argentine sponsors might remain with Williams in 2025 and beyond. Catarineu also confirmed that despite the personal involvement of Flavio Briatore, she and her husband Jamie Campbell-Walter will continue to manage Colapinto.

“It’s better for everyone if Jamie and I remain in charge of Franco, especially on a daily basis. Of course, Flavio will be informed about everything. It’s a team effort.”

Finally, Catarineu hinted once again that part of the new contract with Alpine might involve a promise for Colapinto to replace Jack Doohan at some point in 2025.

“He is super, super happy. You have to understand that just a few months ago, we didn’t know if we would ever make it to Formula 1. Then there were the nine races with Williams. But there was still uncertainty and anxiety because there wasn’t a seat at Williams. And now, he’s happy. Very happy.”