Shockwaves this afternoon: Franco Colapinto has signed with Alpine, leaving Jack Doohan at serious risk for 2025!
It’s a stunning twist that has made headlines worldwide today: after this morning’s rumors suggesting Colapinto might replace Jack Doohan from the sixth race onward, it is now official—the Argentine has joined the French team.
Franco will take on the role of “super-sub,” serving as both a reserve driver and test driver—a move that places immense pressure on Jack Doohan, who now faces a potential early exit from Formula 1.
Statements of the key figures
Franco Colapinto, BWT Alpine Formula One Team, said: “I am super excited to have the opportunity to join BWT Alpine Formula One Team. First of all, I want to thank Williams for all their support from the moment I joined the Academy until the last race in Abu Dhabi. They turned my dream of racing in Formula One into reality, and I will always be grateful for that. Now, it is time for a new chapter, and to take on this challenge with BWT Alpine Formula One Team is truly an honor.”
“A huge thank you to Luca [de Meo][de Meo], Flavio [Briatore][Briatore], and Oliver [Oakes][Oakes] for believing in me and welcoming me into the team with open arms. I cannot wait to get started and see where this journey takes us. Additionally, a massive thank you to all my sponsors and partners who stood by me through the challenges of the 2024 season. Your support made it all possible, and to my incredible fans in Argentina: ‘¡Muchas gracias!’ Your passion and encouragement mean the world to me. Let’s aim for even greater things in 2025 and beyond.”
Flavio Briatore, Executive Advisor, commented: “We are very pleased to come to an agreement with Williams Racing to sign Franco Colapinto. Clearly, Franco is among the best young talents in motorsport right now. His appearance on the Formula One grid last year caught many, including myself, by surprise, and his performances have been very impressive for a rookie driver. We are focused on our future, and his signing means we have an excellent pool of young drivers to rely on and work with as we continue developing the team for future success.”