The wait is over, and the Formula 1 paddock is abuzz with rumors: Franco Colapinto is at the center of the storm! F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has set his sights on the young Argentinian, pressuring Alpine to give him a chance as a starter. Colapinto’s talent, which shone in 2024 with Williams, hasn’t gone unnoticed, and the top flight wants to see him in action.
At just 21 years old, Colapinto has become a sensation. His nine races with Williams, where he scored points in Azerbaijan and Austin, demonstrated his speed and daring. Now, as a reserve driver for Alpine, his name resonates at every Grand Prix. Flavio Briatore, the French team’s executive advisor, is his greatest supporter. “I saw talent and I want him,” said the Italian, who paid millions to secure him on a five-year contract. However, Jack Doohan’s starting position hangs in the balance. The Australian hasn’t scored any points in 2025, and his mistakes, such as the crash in Australia, have raised doubts. In contrast, Colapinto has outperformed his rivals in TPC tests, gaining up to 0.7 seconds per lap on Paul Aron at Monza.
Domenicali, whose contract with Liberty Media has been renewed until 2030, is banking on promising young drivers like Colapinto to revitalize F1. “We must protect emerging talent,” he declared, praising the freshness that drivers like the Argentinian bring. Rumors point to a possible debut in Miami or Imola, circuits where Colapinto has already triumphed in the lower categories. But the internal conflict at Alpine complicates matters. Oliver Oakes, the team principal, defends Doohan, while Briatore insists on the Argentinian. This power struggle could define the future of the team.
Financially, the pressure is also mounting. Alpine needs points to climb the Constructors’ Championship and avoid multi-million-dollar losses. Colapinto, with his ability to take care of the car and optimize strategies, is a safe bet. Furthermore, his arrival with major sponsors, who contribute millions, makes him a valuable asset. In Bahrain, his work in the simulator was key to Pierre Gasly scoring the team’s first points. “We pay him to do his job!” Briatore joked.
The clock is ticking, and Formula 1 isn’t waiting. If Doohan doesn’t improve in Jeddah, the door could open wide for Colapinto. Argentine fans are already dreaming of seeing him on the track, and Domenicali seems determined not to let this talent fade away. Will 2025 be Colapinto’s year? The speed of F1 is relentless, and the young man from Pilar is ready to accelerate. The motorsport world is holding its breath!
