Williams Backs Colapinto - Alpine Holds Immediate Chance

Williams F1 secures Franco Colapinto’s future, but the Argentine driver’s most immediate path to Formula 1 success currently points to Alpine.

Williams F1 secures Franco Colapinto for the long term, despite his signing with Alpine.

After impressing during a surprise nine-race stint with Williams last season, Colapinto was recruited by Alpine F1 to join its reserve driver lineup amid growing doubts about Jack Doohan’s F1 future.

With Williams signing Carlos Sainz following his departure from Ferrari to pair with Alex Albon before giving Colapinto his debut, there is no immediate spot available within the Grove-based team.

As a result, Williams was willing to release the 21-year-old Argentine to join Alpine—an informed decision according to Williams team principal James Vowles.

“The decision was made based on the limited number of seats available to deserving F1 drivers, and he is one of them who should be driving in Formula 1.”

“He is not necessarily a reserve driver for us. We have two excellent drivers for the next two years. I don’t have a spot for him, and his best opportunity lies with Alpine (should Jack Doohan be replaced mid-season by Flavio Briatore, editor’s note).”

“There is no guarantee a seat will open in 2025, but it’s his best opportunity for the next two years, and my decision was based on what would serve his future success.”

Interestingly, Vowles also hinted that Colapinto could return to Williams, adding: “As you can see, this is not a farewell for him. He will remain connected with us in the long term, so for me, this is also an investment in the future.”