Williams’ team principal James Vowles believes that Franco Colapinto’s move to Alpine F1 as a reserve driver is the right step for the young Argentine’s future in formula racing.
Despite Colapinto’s stint with Williams in 2024, Vowles believes that Alpine offers the best path back to the grid for the 21-year-old.
Vowles has recently reiterated his support for Colapinto getting an F1 seat, claiming, “I believe in Franco.”
“I already said very much publicly that I believe, even at the decrement and cost of Williams, that a racing driver that is capable in Formula One should be racing in Formula One.”
No room at the inn for Colapinto at Williams
Williams’ current driver lineup leaves no room for Colapinto, with Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz locked into multi-year deals with the team.
As Vowles put it, “There is no room in the inn, as we’d say in English.”
“We have two incredible drivers that will be with us for at least a couple of years, and maybe up to four years, justdepending on where we get to.”
With no room at the team, Alpine is the next best option for Colapinto in 2025. The team have signed him as a reserve driver, where he’ll back up Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan.
While reserve roles are often seen as an uncertain waiting game, Vowles hopes this move could fast-track Colapinto’s return to the grid.
“Alpine presented the best opportunity for Franco to be a racing driver in 26 and maybe 2025, and that’s important to me.”
“It gives him a great opportunity to still come back to the sport where I believe he deserves to race.”
What’s next for Colapinto?
While he serves this year on the sidelines as a reserve driver, his long-term prospects could be promising.
For Williams, the focus remains on attempting to build a competitive car and supporting their current lineup of Albon and Sainz, all supported by their new title sponsor.
And with the 2025 season approaching, we’ll see if Colapinto can turn this Alpine opportunity into a full-time return to the grid.
