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Williams team boss James Vowles says releasing Franco Colapinto to Alpine gives him the best chance of getting back on the Formula 1 grid in 2025, despite Alpine having two F1 drivers already signed.
Following lengthy negotiations with Alpine, Williams has agreed to release its young driver Colapinto on what it says is a ‘multi-year arrangement’ with Alpine.
For now, Colapinto has been announced as joining the French manufacturer as part of its test and reserve roster – with his duties including attendance at F1 races, testing in a previous car and simulator work.
However, his arrival at Alpine has inevitably prompted speculation that he is being lined up to replace Jack Doohan if the latter does not perform to the desired level in his rookie campaign.
While Alpine is committed to Doohan for the start of the season, Williams has made it clear that the motivation for it releasing Colapinto was that it offered him a way back onto the F1 grid – and potentially as early as this year.
"Over nine memorable races with Williams, he [Colapinto] clearly showed he is deserving of a place in Formula 1 and we always said we would support him to get one," said Vowles, speaking about the Alpine arrangement.
"Williams has one of the most formidable driver line-ups on the grid for 2025 and beyond in Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz, so we believe this agreement with Alpine represents Franco’s best chance of securing a race seat in 2025 or 2026.
"The Williams Racing Driver Academy exists to discover and develop the F1 stars of the future which is exactly what it has done in Franco’s case, and builds on our long tradition of giving talented young drivers their break at the top level of motorsport.
“We are proud to have returned Argentina to the F1 grid, want to thank Franco for everything he has brought to the team and look forward to future battles on track."
Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore did not shy away from making it clear in his press announcement how much he rates Colapinto and sees his potential over the long term.
"Clearly, Franco is among the best young talents in motorsport right now," said Briatore.
"It is fair to say his appearance on the Formula 1 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."
