F1: Franco Colapinto Leaves Williams to Join Alpine as Reserve Driver for 2025

Franco Colapinto has joined Alpine as a reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season on a multi-year deal. He previously raced for Williams, scoring five points in nine races after replacing Logan Sargeant. Colapinto’s move to Alpine follows speculation about Jack Doohan’s position after his debut at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Earlier, Red Bull considered Colapinto for opportunities at VCARB or as a replacement for Sergio Perez, but these plans did not move forward. Alpine’s decision to bring him in suggests they are preparing for potential changes in their driver lineup.

Doohan’s short-term deal with Alpine raises questions about his future with the team. By signing Colapinto, Alpine has a backup option if Doohan does not meet expectations during the early rounds of the 2025 season.

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Franco Colapinto said: 'I am super excited to have the opportunity to join BWT Alpine Formula One Team. First of all, I want to say thank you to Williams for all their support from the moment I joined the Academy until the last race in Abu Dhabi. They turned my dream of racing in Formula One into reality, and I will always be grateful for that. Now, it is time for a new chapter, and to take on this challenge with BWT Alpine Formula One Team is truly an honour. A huge thank you to Luca [de Meo], Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] for believing in me and welcoming me into the team with open arms. I cannot wait to get started and see where this journey takes us.’

Alpine F1 Team's Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore said: 'We are very pleased to come to an agreement with Williams Racing to sign Franco Colapinto. Clearly, Franco is among the best young talents in motorsport right now. It is fair to say his appearance on the Formula One grid last year caught many, me included, by surprise and his performances have been very impressive for a rookie driver. We have an eye on our future and his signing means we have a great pool of young drivers to call upon and work with in developing the team for future success.'

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Franco Colapinto isn’t the only driver Alpine has signed for its 2025 campaign. The French team has also added Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa to its reserve and development lineup. Hirakawa joins Alpine after leaving his role at McLaren, bringing valuable expertise to the team.