Franco Colapinto has impressed in his first two Formula 1 appearances in Monza and Baku after taking over from Logan Sargeant at Williams in the middle of the season. His team boss James Vowles would therefore like to see the young Argentinian in the premier class beyond 2024.
However, the places at Williams are already taken by Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz from 2025. However, there is a place available at Sauber (from 2026 Audi) for the next season.
In an interview with Motorsport.com
Vowles is therefore open to discussions that could enable Colapinto to take a seat alongside Nico Hülkenberg in the rival team. “In two races he has shown the world that he deserves a place in Formula 1,” the Briton says in support of Colapinto.
“I have always been a firm believer in the idea that you have to give good drivers the opportunity to drive,” he stresses. “So we will see if we can find a way to work with Audi on this situation.”
“Let’s wait and see what happens in the end. We have decided on our driver pairing. I think it is still the right line-up for Williams as we grow and develop into World Championship material.”
Colapinto began the racing year in Formula 2, but was promoted for the final nine Formula 1 races to replace Sargeant, who struggled to improve on his form from last season. The Argentinean was immediately up to speed and managed to recover, despite an accident in Baku practice.
He beat teammate Albon in qualifying and scored his first points in the premier class with an eighth place. “I am incredibly proud, like a father, of what Franco has achieved and I want him to be successful,” says Vowles.
In the long term, the 21-year-old is obviously going to be at Williams. But in the meantime, it’s important to keep him as busy as possible in Formula 1. “The right way to bring him back to Williams is to make sure he builds his career. It’s as simple as that,” explains the team boss.
Asked if a release would be given while Colapinto remains in the Williams family, Vowles replied: “I won’t go into the contractual arrangements, but he will always be part of the family. You have to know that, but that doesn’t mean he can’t drive somewhere else.”
– What were Franco Colapinto’s achievements in his first two Formula 1 races?
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Franco Colapinto’s Impressive Formula 1 Debut: Vowles Eyes Sauber Seat for 2025
In the world of Formula 1, new talent is always exciting to see, and Franco Colapinto is quickly making a name for himself. After taking over from Logan Sargeant at Williams, the young Argentinian driver has impressed in his first two Formula 1 appearances in Monza and Baku. His team boss, James Vowles, is eager to see Colapinto continue to shine in the premier class beyond 2024, but with the 2025 driver lineup for Williams already set, the focus turns to Sauber, which will become Audi in 2026.
Colapinto’s Rapid Rise to Prominence
Colapinto began the racing year in Formula 2, but was promoted to Formula 1 for the final nine races to replace Sargeant, who struggled to improve on his form from last season. Despite an accident in Baku practice, Colapinto was immediately up to speed, beating teammate Alexander Albon in qualifying and scoring his first points in the premier class with an eighth-place finish. This impressive debut has caught the attention of many, including his team boss, who is proud of Colapinto’s progress.
Vowles Advocates for Colapinto’s Future in F1
In an interview with Motorsport.com, Vowles expressed his admiration for Colapinto’s talent, stating, “In two races, he has shown the world that he deserves a place in Formula 1.” He went on to say, “I have always been a firm believer in the idea that you have to give good drivers the opportunity to drive.” This sentiment highlights Vowles’ commitment to nurturing emerging talent and creating opportunities for drivers to grow and develop.
Potential Move to Sauber in 2025
With the 2025 driver lineup for Williams already confirmed, featuring Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz, Vowles is exploring alternative options for Colapinto. The most promising opportunity lies with Sauber, which will become Audi in 2026. Vowles is open to discussions that could enable Colapinto to take a seat alongside Nico Hülkenberg in the rival team. This would not only provide Colapinto with a competitive platform but also allow him to develop his skills alongside an experienced driver.
A Bright Future Ahead
While Vowles is optimistic about Colapinto’s prospects, he remains committed to Williams’ own growth and development, stating, “Let’s wait and see what happens in the end. We have decided on our driver pairing. I think it is still the right line-up for Williams as we grow and develop into World Championship material.” This balanced approach demonstrates Vowles’ dedication to both Colapinto’s career and Williams’ long-term goals.
As the Formula 1 season continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Colapinto as he looks to build on his impressive debut. With Vowles’ support and the potential for a seat at Sauber, the young Argentinian driver is poised to make a lasting impact on the sport.
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Williams, what were the key highlights of Franco Colapinto’s Formula 1 debut?
Franco Colapinto’s Impressive Formula 1 Debut: Vowles Eyes Sauber Seat for 2025
In the world of Formula 1, new talent is always exciting to see, and Franco Colapinto is quickly making a name for himself. After taking over from Logan Sargeant at
