Argentine driver Franco Colapinto is set to make a fresh start in Formula 1 as he replaces Australian Jack Doohan at Alpine for the upcoming Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola. Despite having competed in nine races for Williams last season, the 21-year-old still qualifies as a rookie under F1 regulations.
Speaking ahead of the race weekend, Colapinto emphasized the challenge of stepping into a new team and car, describing the situation as “starting from zero.” He acknowledged the unfortunate circumstances of replacing another driver mid-season but remained focused on making the most of the opportunity.
Colapinto Reignites Argentine Pride While Facing Pressure to Adapt at Alpine
Colapinto made headlines last year by becoming the first Argentine on the F1 grid in 23 years, igniting excitement back home. During his brief stint with Williams, he managed to score five points, earning recognition and setting expectations high for his future in the sport. His return to the grid also increases South American representation, now standing at two drivers, with Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto already racing for Sauber. This growing presence reflects a revival of interest in Formula 1 across the continent.
Franco Colapinto (Formula 1)Despite the optimism, Colapinto admits to feeling somewhat “rusty” as he adapts to Alpine’s setup. The team has given him five races to prove himself, a timeframe he acknowledges might not be enough to fully adapt to an unfamiliar car and team environment. In preparation, he has been training extensively in Alpine’s simulator and recently tested an older F1 car at Zandvoort. These efforts aim to bridge the performance gap and help him integrate more quickly with Alpine’s engineering team and race operations.
Colapinto Returns to Imola Focused on Team Goals and Long-Term F1 Future
Colapinto expressed his excitement about returning to racing at Imola, a track where he has fond memories from his junior racing days. While his F1 debut at Monza last year was filled with adrenaline and first-time experiences, he approaches this comeback with a calmer and more focused mindset. Unlike the high-pressure debut, this stint is about more than just fulfilling a dream—it’s about contributing meaningfully to Alpine’s goals and securing a longer-term role in Formula 1.
With his dream of racing in Formula 1 now a reality, Colapinto’s focus has shifted toward long-term development and team integration. He recognizes that being in F1 is not only about individual achievement but about collaboration and contributing to a team’s broader ambitions.
Although the road ahead may be uncertain, Colapinto’s grounded perspective and previous experience position him as a promising contender for a permanent seat in the sport. His performance in the upcoming races will be critical in determining his future with Alpine.
