P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore has hailed Franco Colapinto as one of the team’s “most important assets” ahead of the F1 2025 season.
Franco Colapinto, a young Argentine driver, joined the Enstone-based squad following the conclusion of the 2024 season, making his debut in Formula 1 for Williams and scoring five points in nine races after stepping in for Logan Sargeant. Sargeant was replaced by Carlos Sainz due to leaving Ferrari, leaving Colapinto without a seat for 2025. Despite Alpine already finalizing its driver lineup for the next season, they signed Colapinto as a reserve driver, sparking rumors of a potential swap with Jack Doohan during the season. Flavio Briatore, praising Colapinto’s talent and work ethic, emphasized the team’s commitment to provide him with the necessary support and tools for success. Colapinto’s decision to move to Alpine was driven by his aspirations for a full-time seat in Formula 1, highlighting the opportunities presented by the team compared to Williams and expressing admiration for Briatore’s legacy in the sport.
