Franco Colapinto is on his way to Red Bull, according to former F1 driver and consultant Ralf Schumacher. But will he go to Red Bull Racing or RB F1?
The impressive rookie is due to leave his Williams seat at the end of the year, but early rumors have swirled that the team could keep him on board in 2025 and allow Carlos Sainz to move to Red Bull.
Red Bull and Williams have categorically rejected this theory, confirming that Sainz will test the 2024 car in post-Abu Dhabi testing before lining up on the grid next season.
Behind the scenes, fierce negotiations took place between Williams, Colapinto management, and possible alternative teams for 2025, including Red Bull and Alpine F1.
Schumacher, however, said he already knew where the Argentine would end up.
“There was a lot of interest in him, and not only from Helmut Marko. I think Colapinto will definitely go to Red Bull according to my information.”
Williams boss James Vowles has apparently demanded $20 million to release Colapinto from his 2025 contract, but Red Bull could cover that sum thanks to the young man's immense new commercial appeal in Argentina.
“Colapinto can bring in a whole set of sponsors. It will allow us to close big deals.”
Some believe Colapinto could replace Sergio Perez, although Schumacher admits a place for the Argentine at RB F1, Red Bull's junior team, is also possible.
“That's a good question. I don't think Red Bull knows exactly either.”
“Internally, the situation between Christian Horner and Helmut Marko is still not optimal. Then there is Max's father, who is not really happy with the situation and has given the green light to an association with Colapinto “It's exciting to see how this all shakes out, but I'm pretty sure Colapinto will end up in one of these cars.”
Schumacher admits a young driver like Colapinto poses a risk for Red Bull Racing, although he is impressed by how quickly new rookies adapt.
“But we can see that Formula 1 is not a walk in the park. We see it with (Oscar) Piastri, who is a little disappointing at the moment. It's not a question of getting started and everything is acquired afterwards. You have to keep up the pace, build it up, it’s not as easy as it seems sometimes.”
