Argentine driver Franco Colapinto is reportedly being monitored by the BWT Alpine F1 Team, with Flavio Briatore weighing his options for a possible early departure of Jack Doohan
Formula 1 may soon welcome back Franco Colapinto, just weeks after his departure. According to reports from Argentina, the young talent is in contact with Alpine, with Flavio Briatore ready to offer him a chance to return to the grid as early as 2025.
The arrival of the Italian manager, who was banned from the sport until a few years ago, has brought a wave of change to Enstone. The decision to shut down Alpine’s Power Unit program and rely on Mercedes engines starting in 2026 marked a bold shift for the French team, which has struggled to reclaim its former glory in recent years.
For now, the team’s only solid asset is Pierre Gasly. In contrast, Jack Doohan’s seat appears far less secure, partly due to a résumé that doesn’t quite compare to those of talents like Kimi Antonelli, Charles Leclerc, or Oscar Piastri.
Doohan: Six races before the first assessment—could he be at risk of losing his seat?
According to the Argentine newspaper Olé, Doohan will have six races to prove his worth. If he fails to meet expectations, Briatore might consider a mid-season replacement, following a model seen at Red Bull with the likes of De Vries and Ricciardo. In this scenario, Franco Colapinto could emerge as the ideal candidate to partner with Gasly.
The Argentine, who has already demonstrated his potential in junior categories, is seeking a team that can offer him a real chance to return to Formula 1. For now, Alpine seems to be his only faint hope, especially with Red Bull promoting Isack Hadjar and Williams opting for Sainz.
For now, Colapinto’s fate hinges on Doohan’s performances. If the Australian driver fails to convince the team during the opening races of the season, Colapinto might finally get the opportunity he has been waiting for. One thing is certain: Briatore will not make any concessions. As the Italian manager himself stated, “If a driver doesn’t deliver results, I’ll replace him. You can’t be emotional in F1.”
In short, Doohan doesn’t have much time to enjoy his recent promotion to Formula 1, while Colapinto’s chances of participating in the upcoming season remain uncertain. However, there’s still hope for Argentina, even if it means the young talent might not race in all 24 Grands Prix.
Photo: Williams Racing, BWT Alpine F1 Team