Bernie Ecclestone continues to use his influence behind the scenes and admits he is “possible” that the confirmed arrival of Jack Doohan on the Formula 1 starting grid for 2025 be canceled.
Since replacing Logan Sargeant at Williams mid-season, rookie Franco Colapinto has stunned the paddock with his driving, personality and commercial appeal to investors.
However, despite being under a long-term contract with Williams’ driver programme, he does not have a seat for 2025 following the arrival of Carlos Sainz.
Red Bull have expressed interest in the 21-year-old, but Williams boss James Vowles is reportedly demanding a $20 million release fee – a sum the energy drinks company has refused.
But Colapinto management says there are other options.
“Everyone knows there are a lot of teams that want to see Franco in Formula 1 next year,” declared Maria Catherine.
When asked about the likelihood of getting a seat in 2025, Catarineu replied: “On a scale of one to ten? Twenty.”
“So many people want this, so it’s only right that this is happening. It’s clear that there are many scenarios being worked out.”
One such scenario involves Flavio Briatore, the new executive advisor of Alpine F1, and his long-time friend and business partner, former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone.
Ecclestone, 94, admitted that Briatore called him a few days ago to reveal that he wanted to put Colapinto in an Alpine seat for 2025! The $20 million release fee would not pose a problem “no problem” to Briatore, who has numerous commercial contacts in South America thanks to…. Ecclestone.
All this would be done despite the fact that Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan are already committed. The Frenchman is not in danger. Sources say the Australian’s 2025 contract is actually only guaranteed for the first five races of next season.
And Ecclestone believes even that deal could be broken.
“In Formula 1, anything is possible. Until the money is in the bank.”
Ecclestone also reveals that he is part of the reason why Sebastian Vettel abandoned his plans to try to launch a return to Formula 1.
“I had to dissuade him from his comeback dreams. Why should a four-time world champion put himself through that?”
