P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Williams has explained that the team agreed to sanction Franco Colapinto’s exit to Alpine as it represents his “best chance” of earning a permanent seat in F1.
Colapinto has left Williams and joined Alpine on a multi-year deal, starting as a reserve driver for the upcoming season. He made a strong impression in his nine-race stint at Williams, with two points finishes, after stepping in for Logan Sargeant before the Italian Grand Prix. Despite his success, Colapinto had to give up his spot at Williams due to the team signing Carlos Sainz to partner Alex Albon. Alpine expressed interest in Colapinto once Red Bull and Sauber chose other drivers, leading to this agreement between the two parties. Williams’ team principal, Vowles, believes that joining Alpine gives Colapinto the best chance to secure a race seat in 2025 or 2026. The Williams Racing Driver Academy continues its tradition of nurturing young talent, and they are proud to have played a role in bringing Argentina back to the F1 grid.
