Friday’s F1 updates centered on the future of promising Argentine driver Franco Colapinto, who has drawn interest from multiple F1 teams for 2025. A recent report from *La Gazzetta dello Sport* suggests that Alpine, advised by Flavio Briatore, is considering signing Colapinto, though they already have Pierre Gasly and rookie Jack Doohan lined up for next season. James Vowles, Williams’ team principal, confirmed that other teams are also interested, following Colapinto’s solid performances since stepping in for Logan Sargeant. However, sources close to Alpine indicate that their 2025 driver lineup is set, implying that Colapinto might look elsewhere for his next opportunity.
Commenting on the potential of Colapinto joining Red Bull, former driver Karun Chandhok advised a cautious approach. He noted that Colapinto is exceptionally talented, but the timing might be premature for a pairing with Max Verstappen, a position that would place immense pressure on the young driver. Chandhok suggested that if Red Bull were to bring Colapinto in, it might be wiser to start him in a development role or a junior team to allow him to gain experience and build confidence. Such a gradual integration could help Colapinto avoid potential setbacks in his career.
In other news, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed imminent updates to the F1 calendar, with a possible shift to a rotational approach for certain European circuits. With rising demand from venues worldwide, F1 aims to limit its calendar to 24 races, prompting discussions about rotating events in Europe. This model would help the sport balance tradition with expansion, allowing newer markets to host races while maintaining established tracks on a bi-annual basis. Domenicali emphasized that such decisions involve a careful mix of economic and growth-oriented considerations to strengthen F1’s global presence.
Additionally, former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto, now managing Gabriel Bortoleto, shared insights into his decision to sign the young Brazilian driver. While Bortoleto is managed by Fernando Alonso’s A14 Management agency, Binotto clarified that Alonso’s role in this decision was minimal. According to Binotto, his focus was solely on Bortoleto’s skills and potential, noting that Alonso respected his decision without pressuring him to sign Bortoleto. This unique arrangement will see Binotto managing Alonso’s client, setting up a friendly competition on the grid next season.
Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Christian Horner underscored the need for Sergio Perez to finish the season on a high note. Although Perez enjoyed a strong start to 2024, his recent form has slipped, putting pressure on his position within the team despite a contract extension. Horner emphasized that Red Bull needs Perez to score in the remaining races to support their Constructors’ Championship efforts against Ferrari and McLaren. Perez’s performance in the closing races could be crucial in shaping Red Bull’s plans for their driver lineup in 2025.
