F1: Franco Colapinto Replaces Logan Sargeant at Williams for the Rest of 2024 Season

Williams has decided to replace Logan Sargeant with Franco Colapinto for the rest of the Formula 1 season. Sargeant, who joined in 2023, will leave after scoring just one point in 36 races. His departure follows a crash at the Dutch Grand Prix and a 16th-place finish. Williams' decision to promote Colapinto from their junior program exhibits their commitment to developing young talent. Currently sixth in the Formula 2 standings, Colapinto will be the first Argentine driver in Formula 1 since Gaston Mazzacane in 2001. This move also comes ahead of a planned driver change for next season, with Carlos Sainz Jr. joining from Ferrari to partner Alex Albon. Williams is keen to assess Colapinto's potential in a Formula 1 car, possibly considering him for a longer-term role with the team.

Commenting on the development, Franco Colapinto said, 'It is an honour to be making my Formula 1 debut with Williams – this is what dreams are made of. The team has such an amazing history and a mission to get back to the front, which I can’t wait to be part of. Coming into F1 mid-season will be an enormous learning curve, but I am up for the challenge, and I’m fully focused on working as hard as I can with Alex and the team to make it a success.'

Also Read: F1: Haas Cleared to Leave Netherlands After Resolving Uralkali Sponsor Dispute

James Vowles, Team Principal, said, '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.'

F1: Logan Sargeant's 2023 Season

Logan Sargeant has struggled in the current season of Formula 1, failing to earn a single point. He remains one of only three drivers without a championship point, along with Zhou Guanyu and Valtteri Bottas of Kick Sauber.

Also Read: F1: Hamilton 'Enjoyed' the Dutch Grand Prix Despite Mercedes’ Lack of Pace

Sargeant's troubles were evident at the Dutch Grand Prix, where he crashed heavily during the third practice session in Zandvoort. The crash severely damaged his upgraded car and caused a fire.

Despite his contract ending this season, rumours have been rife about his mid-season replacement for months. Carlos Sainz will join Alex Albon on the team next season.