In the past month, many rumors have circulated about a possible move of Franco Colapinto to Red Bull, following his strong performances in his debut. However, in recent races, the Argentine has shown a less positive trend, and Christian Horner has shared the Austrian team’s decision regarding the young driver’s future.
Christian Horner and the final decision on Franco Colapinto’s fate at Red Bull
“Colapinto is definitely a talent trying to secure a permanent spot in Formula 1,” Horner said after the Qatar Grand Prix.
“We have a great pool of talent within the Red Bull junior team, and I am sure Franco will find his way onto the grid in the future.”
Thus, it’s a no-go for Franco Colapinto, who will need to look for another opportunity in 2025. The team principal also spoke about the Red Bull academy, particularly about Hadjar, who will compete for the F2 title against Gabriel Bortoleto in Abu Dhabi. Gabriel Bortoleto is set to race with Sauber in F1 next year.
“You always keep an eye on the market across all teams, but we have strength and depth in the junior program. It’s been great to see Isack Hadjar doing well in F2. I think there’s half a point separating the drivers heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.”
Finally, Horner was asked whether Yuki Tsunoda or Liam Lawson will replace Sergio Perez in 2025, though the British team principal shared very little on the matter.
“Liam and Yuki were very close in Qatar in terms of pace, so we have a full roster of drivers. Being Max Verstappen’s teammate is probably the toughest job in Formula 1, but I think that would apply to any driver on the grid.”
And on Perez: “I’ll let Checo draw his own conclusions; no one will force him one way or the other. It’s obviously not a pleasant situation to be in. We’ll get to the end of Abu Dhabi and see where we stand.”
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