In a surprise turn of events, Franco Colapinto will drive for Williams until the end of 2024. The 21-year-old was an outside contender to replace Logan Sargeant, but James Vowles has chosen to put his faith in the Argentine. Colapinto’s F1 debut is just days away, but Vowles is confident he can help Williams fight for points.
James Vowles signs Franco Colapinto as Sargeant replacement
Why Colapinto was chosen
Over the last few days, Franco Colapinto was barely mentioned as a contender to replace Logan Sargeant.
Instead, Mick Schumacher and Liam Lawson were the favourites to join Williams mid-season.
However, a combination of factors prevented either driver from completing the move.
For Lawson, Red Bull were the main limiting factor. Christian Horner’s team were willing to send the Kiwi on loan, but only under specific conditions.
These conditions put off James Vowles from pushing for an agreement.
Meanwhile, it is understood that James Vowles was not overly confident in Schumacher’s abilities. The former Mercedes strategist always considered Schumacher an option, but evidently never a priority.
Although Colapinto has flown under the radar until now, his credentials are noteworthy.
He is currently 6th in the Formula 2 standings in his rookie season, one position ahead of Kimi Antonelli.
With one victory and three podiums in F2, Colapinto’s speed is clear. By promoting a Williams Academy driver, James Vowles is showing commitment to offering opportunities within the team.
The Argentine drove an FP1 session for Williams in Silverstone a few months ago. He was also present in last year’s end-of-season rookie test.
These outings will give the British team some evidence – however limited – of his potential.
Vowles explains decision
Inevitably, the decision to replace Logan Sargeant mid-season is being met with mixed reactions across social media.
Considering the high praise and staunch defence that James Vowles made for Sargeant at the end of 2023, this dramatic turn of events will not be received well by some observers.
The Williams team principal has explained the thought process behind this decision:
“To replace a driver mid-season is not a decision we have taken lightly.
“But we believe this gives Williams the best chance to compete for points over the remainder of the season.
“We have just brought a large upgrade to the car and need to maximise every points-scoring opportunity in a remarkably tight midfield battle.
“We also believe in investing in our young drivers in the Williams Racing Driver Academy, and Franco is getting a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate what he is capable of across the final nine rounds of the season.
“This is undoubtedly incredibly tough on Logan, who has given his all throughout his time with Williams.
“And we want to thank him for all his hard work and positive attitude.
“Logan remains a talented driver and we will support him to continue his racing career for the future.
“I know that Franco has great speed and huge potential, and we look forward to seeing what he can do in Formula 1.”
Thrown into the deep end
Williams are currently 9th in the standings – only Sauber have fewer points.
The team’s pace in Zandvoort was encouraging, though. Alex Albon secured a Q3 appearance in his freshly upgraded car, an encouraging sign for the rest of 2024.
Alpine are 9 points ahead in the Championship, which is a deficit Williams are working to overcome.
Considering how competitive the midfield scrap is, Colapinto must brace himself for an intense battle.
Then again, regardless of the circumstances, Colapinto is ecstatic to drive in Formula 1.
