Just three weeks ago, Franco Colapinto joined Williams and has already scored his first points for the British racing team. What Logan Sargeant couldn’t achieve in fourteen Grand Prix, the Argentine accomplished in two race weekends. Next year, Colapinto will make way for Williams’ latest addition, Carlos Sainz. However, James Vowles is determined to secure a Formula 1 seat for Colapinto, potentially with competitor Audi.
James Vowles was thrilled after the race weekend in Baku. Williams performed well on the street circuit, with Albon and Colapinto finishing seventh and eighth respectively. In this second phase of the season, the Argentine is keeping the seat warm for Carlos Sainz; the Spaniard will join from Ferrari next year. However, Vowles wants to offer Colapinto a more permanent seat and is lobbying with the future Audi team.
“Of course, he remains a part of the Williams family, but I also hope he can continue racing somewhere,” said the British team boss. “I want to give Colapinto a seat for 2025, ideally in Formula 1. Realistically, there’s only one team left,” he referred to the last seat at Sauber. “We’ll see what we can achieve there.”
Gabriel Bortoleto’s Potential Move to Formula 1
“In two races, Colapinto has shown the world that he deserves a seat in Formula 1,” continued Vowles. “We will see what the possibilities are at Audi and whether we can find a way to collaborate.” Despite Colapinto’s strong debut, there is no doubt at Williams about the future line-up. “I believe that Alexander Albon and Sainz are still the right setup for Williams, as we continue to grow and want to compete for the title. Nevertheless, I am incredibly proud of what Franco (Colapinto) has achieved,” concluded Vowles.
However, there are more ‘rookies’ vying for the last Audi seat. The leader in Formula 2, Gabriel Bortoleto, could also make the leap to the premier class. Reportedly, Sauber has already shown interest in the Brazilian talent. McLaren, which supports Bortoleto’s career, would allow him to move to Sauber.
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