Franco Colapinto is making his Latin American debut as a Formula 1 driver at this weekend’s Mexico City Grand Prix. While home favorite Sergio Perez commands the most support, Colapinto’s fanbase is steadily expanding. His popularity surged further after celebrating a points finish with a dedicated group of Argentine fans at the recent U.S. Grand Prix, and even more are expected to attend in Mexico. With no Argentine Grand Prix on the calendar, the upcoming Brazilian GP will be the closest he’ll come to a home race this season.
Since stepping in for Logan Sargeant at Williams in late August, the 21-year-old has impressed with two top-10 finishes in his first four races, instantly applying pressure on his more experienced teammate, Alex Albon. Yet, Franco Colapinto’s future in Formula 1 remains uncertain. Williams has committed to Albon and Carlos Sainz for 2025, leaving no seat available for him. Williams team principal James Vowles is now exploring loan options with other teams, hoping to find Franco Colapinto a seat elsewhere. Sauber, with an opening alongside Nico Hulkenberg, may be an option, though they might hesitate to sign a driver contracted to a rival team. Should no deal materialize, Franco Colapinto would likely remain with Williams as a reserve, gaining experience in a two-year-old car testing program.
In a recent F1 Show interview with Martin Brundle, Franco Colapinto hinted that a full-time F1 role in 2025 is unlikely, as he sees “no space” left on the grid. Instead, he’s focused on maximizing his remaining five races this season, positioning himself for a potential return in 2026 or 2027. Caros Sainz’s contract includes an exit clause after 2026, which could open up a Williams seat. Meanwhile, former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has noted Franco Colapinto’s potential as a strong competitor, indicating he’s a significant future threat to Albon. Franco Colapinto himself remains confident, drawing inspiration from drivers like Alex Albon, Nico Hulkenberg, Esteban Ocon, and Kevin Magnussen, who all made successful comebacks after a season or more away.
“I know that there are no seats left at the moment. There is no space for me to go. I’m trying just to show that I deserve a seat in Formula 1 and that I deserve my place here. I came to stay and not only do a couple of races. I hope to make an impression. I’m sure I’m going to be back in the future. 26, 27, I’m sure I’m going to be back.” – he pointed out ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix.
Liberty Media’s Concerns Over Franco Colapinto’s Blocked Path to a Williams Seat
Franco Colapinto’s journey to Formula 1 has been described by Sergio Perez’s father as “near impossible,” highlighting the rarity of a Latino driver reaching the pinnacle of motorsport. Colapinto’s success marks him as the first Argentinian driver in F1 since Gaston Mazzacane in 2001—a significant achievement in a sport where South American representation has been scarce.
With Sergio Perez’s Red Bull seat in jeopardy and the Argentinian driver’s prospects for a full-time position uncertain, next year’s grid may lack any drivers from the region. Liberty Media, the commercial rights holder, sees a strong market potential in South America and is keen on having a driver from the continent represented in the sport. Franco Colapinto’s appeal as a highly marketable driver could help Argentina’s influence grow within F1, potentially even paving the way for the return of the Argentine Grand Prix if he solidifies his position on the grid.
Leave a Reply