Colapinto: Good news with places freed up in F1 this year

Although his first performances at the wheel of the FW46 aroused real enthusiasm, particularly during the Baku and Austin races, Franco Colapinto fails to land a steering wheel for next season. The decision to Red Bull to entrust the place left vacant by Liam Lawson has Isack Hadjar put an end to the hopes of the Argentinian, who will now have to wait before returning to the world of Formula 1.

For now, the Argentine driver will be reserve driver at Williamswho has already aligned the pair Carlos Sainz et Alex Albon for the year 2025. This season could be marked by numerous negotiations with a view to 2026, because several drivers see their contracts expire in December, thus suggesting an opportunity for Franco to make a return to the highest level, especially since the future of the majority of them is not guaranteed.

Indeed, George Russell is probably the only one who is almost certain to renew his contract with Mercedesthanks to its good results. It's a very different situation from that of his new teammate Kimi Antonelliwho will have to prove that he has the qualities required to stay in the German team. The same goes for the other two rookies, Jack Doohan at Alpine et Isack Hadjar at Racing Bulls.

The breach of contract between Honda and Red Bull could also mean the end of the adventure for Yuki Tsunoda within the Faenza team, thus encouraging Racing Bulls to look for another driver for 2026. Furthermore, the Austrian team will also test Liam Lawsonwhose contract ends at the end of the year, bringing to six the number of drivers whose future will be at stake during the season.

The scenario that could restore hope to Colapinto

Although it seems likely that Franco Colapinto must wait until 2026 to return to the track, it should be noted that the Alpine stable might consider parting ways with Jack Doohan earlier than expected. Flavio Briatore admitted that if the Australian pilot fails to convince, he will be replaced, while Motorsport revealed that Jack Doohan only has contract for the first five raceswhich forces him to offer impeccable performances to avoid losing his seat to the Argentinian, who is the main choice of the French team to accompany Pierre Gasly.