Argentine rising star Franco Colapinto recently poked fun at Carlos Sainz’s move to Williams, humorously claiming the Spaniard “hijacked” his seat following Sainz’s switch from Ferrari to Williams for the 2025 season. With the 21-year-old Argentine currently racing for Williams in the 2024 season, Sainz’s impending arrival has sparked friendly banter between the two drivers.
Colapinto, who replaced Logan Sargent at Williams for the remainder of 2024 after Sargent’s struggles throughout the season, has already made a significant impact. In just three races, he secured four championship points with a commendable P8 finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. However, the arrival of Sainz next year has put Colapinto’s long-term position with the team in doubt.
Appearing on a Spanish TV show, Colapinto joked about Sainz’s move to Williams, telling the interviewer to send a message to his fellow Spaniard. “He took my seat, your compatriot. Tell him to go to another team,” Colapinto said with a smile, playfully acknowledging the competition for a full-time seat at Williams.
Despite his impressive performances, Colapinto faces stiff competition for a permanent role in 2025, as Williams has confirmed Sainz will join alongside Alex Albon next season. Meanwhile, Colapinto’s sights may be set on a potential seat at Sauber, which will transition to Audi in 2026. Rumors are swirling about his prospects with the team, and Williams team principal James Vowles has expressed his commitment to helping Colapinto secure a long-term future in Formula 1.
Vowles, who has praised Colapinto’s talent, emphasized that the young driver will remain part of the Williams academy, regardless of his future racing seat. “Franco will always be a part of the academy in our program, irrespective, anyway,” Vowles confirmed, underscoring the team’s dedication to nurturing his development.
Colapinto has turned heads with his strong performances, including a race win with a less competitive team, which earned him a spot in the Williams academy. With six races left in the 2024 season, Colapinto is eager to continue impressing, knowing that these performances could open doors for future opportunities, potentially with Sauber or elsewhere on the grid.
As the 2024 Formula 1 season winds down, all eyes are on Colapinto and Sainz. Fans are keen to see how Colapinto fares in his final outings with Williams, hoping he can add more points to his tally and secure a bright future in the sport.
