
Alpine announced that, starting in the 2025 season, Franco Colapinto will become the team’s reserve driver after delivering impressive results with Williams in 2024. The Argentine driver, who earned a total of five points in the nine races he competed in, showcased his skills and versatility during a challenging year, stepping into the seat vacated by Logan Sargeant mid-season. Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive advisor, praised Colapinto as one of the most talented young drivers in motorsport, stating that his performances spoke volumes about his potential.
This move casts doubt on the future of Jack Doohan, who made his F1 debut for Alpine at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix under a short-term 12-race contract. With Doohan’s performance under scrutiny in the opening races of 2025, Alpine has secured Colapinto on a multi-year deal to provide a reliable backup option. The decision to bring Colapinto on board is seen as a strategic move to ensure the team has sufficient young talent for future development.
Williams agreed to release Colapinto, allowing him to focus on a long-term opportunity with Alpine. James Vowles, Williams’ team principal, acknowledged Colapinto’s talent and expressed pride in the driver’s achievements during his brief stint with the team. With Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon already secured in Williams’ lineup, opportunities for Colapinto to advance within the team were limited.
The signing also highlights the fluid nature of the F1 driver market. While other teams, like Red Bull, reportedly showed interest in Colapinto, they ultimately did not follow through. As Colapinto begins building his career as a key figure for Alpine, the pressure is now on Doohan to prove his value and solidify his place on the team. For fans and analysts, this development adds excitement to the 2025 Formula 1 season, where young drivers will vie for the chance to become the sport’s next legends.