The director of the Williams F1 team, James Vowles admitted that he was currently activating his network and that he was exploring possibilities with certain teams to allow Franco Colapinto to drive in 2025.
The 21-year-old Argentine driver has made a strong impression since his arrival in F1 during the Italian Grand Prix. As a reminder, the latter came to replace a failing Logan Sargeant at short notice. If the objective for Franco Colapinto was not to break the cars, the latter did much better since he scored points at the wheel of a modest Williams. Remarkable and noticed performances in the paddock, while the driver does not have a seat in 2025. In fact, Williams has already announced its line-up for 2025, Alexander Albon – Carlos Sainz.
These impressive performances gave rise to rumors that he is now being sent to Red Bull to replace Sergio Pérez.
This Friday, ahead of the São Paulo Grand Prix, James Vowles revealed that Williams is working to secure an F1 place for Colapinto in 2025.
“The best I can tell you is that we are actively working with the teams that are interested to try to find the right arrangement that helps Franco, that protects Franco and that protects all parties.”Vowles said.
“It's never easy between Formula 1 teams, because you're fighting on the track and trying to find a solution for a young man's career. He earns his place. He needs to do more on the track to continue to earn his spot, but he shines, and that's why teams are interested in him.”
Also read: Marko says a “faster” Hadjar than Colapinto is ready for F1
“We are exploring possibilities with a number of teams who are interested at the moment and beyond that, it would be a mistake to do anything other than speculate here. There is nothing to communicate beyond this point.”
“When it does, I'll be happy to talk about it, because he's an exceptional driver, and I really mean it – look out there, there were tens of thousands of people here to support a driver who is in our championship for five races. He does an outstanding job on the track and, like I've said from the beginning, earn your position and the elements will come to you.”
“But beyond that, I think, especially considering he's 21, my responsibility is also to him and I want to make sure we do the right thing. I want to make sure that when we have news, we communicate it to the world, but there's not much to say.”
An espresso and Colapinto please!
Speculation surrounding Colapinto's possible signing at Red Bull gained momentum on Friday, when team principal Christian Horner was seen visiting Williams' space in the Interlagos paddock.
James Vowles joked about the excitement surrounding this visit and gave an excuse… rather lame for our tastes.
“We recently signed a new coffee sponsor, Reviver by Gulf, and he really wanted to try it. That was a good part of the conversation. He appreciated it.”
Read also: Colapinto has “the necessary qualities” to replace Pérez, according to this team director
