Franco Colapinto has joined Alpine as a reserve driver following his departure from Williams at the end of the 2024 season.
The 21-year-old Argentine made his Formula 1 debut mid-season in 2024, replacing Logan Sargeant at Williams for the final races of the year. Colapinto impressed during his brief stint with the team, scoring points on multiple occasions and demonstrating strong racecraft against more experienced competitors.
Despite his promising performances, Williams opted to sign Carlos Sainz for 2025 following the Spaniard's departure from Ferrari, leaving Colapinto without a race seat. The decision was widely discussed in the paddock, with many observers noting Colapinto's strong results deserved continued race opportunities.
Alpine moved to secure Colapinto's services in a reserve capacity, with the Enstone-based team looking to strengthen its driver pool. The role will see Colapinto contribute to simulator work and remain available as a replacement should either of the team's race drivers be unavailable.
The move keeps Colapinto connected to the F1 grid while he awaits a potential return to a full-time race seat. His management team are understood to be actively seeking opportunities for the Argentine driver across the grid for future seasons.
Source: bbc.co.uk