The world of Formula 1 is no stranger to rumour and speculation, yet the buzz surrounding Franco Colapinto’s potential move to a Red Bull team is causing quite a stir. The young Argentine’s remarkable start in F1, replacing Logan Sargeant at Williams, has seen him consistently perform and score valuable points in two of his six outings, capturing the attention of major teams in the paddock.
Colapinto’s Impact at Williams
Despite his limited experience, Colapinto has quickly proven his worth at Williams, delivering impressive performances that have not gone unnoticed. With no full-time seat secured for 2025, Williams team principal James Vowles acknowledges the team’s efforts to collaborate with other F1 squads to secure Colapinto a spot on next year’s grid.
Red Bull’s Interest Sparks Speculation
The chatter during the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend linked Colapinto with a possible seat at Red Bull Racing, potentially replacing the underperforming Sergio Perez alongside Max Verstappen. This rumour gained further traction when Red Bull executives, including team principal Christian Horner, were seen visiting the Williams hospitality area for discussions with Vowles.
Potential Scenarios for Colapinto
Red Bull’s interest in Colapinto presents intriguing possibilities. One scenario, according to sources from the Interlagos weekend, suggests Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko favours placing Liam Lawson, fresh from a strong F1 return since the United States GP, as Verstappen’s teammate for 2025. Colapinto, thus, could find himself at Red Bull Motorsport’s second team, partnering with Yuki Tsunoda.
However, another scenario favoured by Horner could see Colapinto alongside Verstappen directly. This move could bolster Red Bull’s commercial interests, tapping into Colapinto’s soaring popularity in Argentina and Central and South America. Nonetheless, such a strategy carries risks due to Colapinto’s limited experience, having transitioned from Formula 2 only this year.
Implications for Red Bull Junior Team
The potential promotion of Colapinto disrupts Red Bull’s once illustrious junior programme. Marko views Lawson’s promotion as a return to the team’s historical practice of grooming talent from within. Introducing an externally sourced driver like Colapinto to the main team could sideline Red Bull’s young prospects for another season.
Lawson, who has consistently proven his potential, might still miss out, even though he seems ready for a full-time role. If Colapinto joins alongside Verstappen, the Red Bull junior programme could face ongoing challenges, continuing the trend seen during Perez’s tenure.
Williams’ Stand and Financial Stakes
Currently, Colapinto remains a Williams driver. Vowles values him highly, reportedly setting a $20 million price tag for any interested teams. This figure underscores the belief in his talent and could shape conversations between Williams and potential bidders, including Red Bull.
Alpine Adds Another Twist
In an unexpected twist, rumours have also surfaced about Alpine’s interest in Colapinto, despite having Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan on contract for 2025. A recent Qatar test involving Gasly has fuelled theories that Alpine seeks comparative feedback, possibly hinting at changes despite Doohan’s designated position.
As the season progresses, these swirling rumours promise an intriguing off-season. Discussions surrounding Franco Colapinto’s potential move continue to captivate the F1 community, hinting at a major shift ahead of the 2025 grid.
