Williams’ Vowles Weighs Offers as Red Bull’s Christian Horner Eyes the Young Talent
Argentine sensation Franco Colapinto has quickly turned heads since joining Williams in August, securing two points finishes in just five races and sparking interest from top Formula 1 teams. Among the keen suitors is none other than Red Bull, with Team Principal Christian Horner spotted in Williams’ hospitality unit during the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend—a visit that raised eyebrows despite Williams boss James Vowles’ quip that Horner was merely trying their new coffee.
Colapinto’s future with Williams appears short-lived, as the team prepares to welcome Carlos Sainz alongside Alex Albon for 2025. But his rapid rise has fueled discussions between Williams and other teams, including Audi-owned Sauber and Red Bull. Colapinto could find himself in Red Bull’s stable if Sergio Perez is ousted and Red Bull’s reserve driver Liam Lawson is promoted to the senior team, opening a door for Colapinto within Red Bull’s extended network.
While negotiations are ongoing, Vowles stressed that talks are still in preliminary stages. “We’re exploring possibilities with a number of teams that are interested at the moment,” Vowles explained. “There’s nothing definitive to communicate yet. When there is, I’ll happily discuss it because he’s an exceptional driver.”
Red Bull’s Helmut Marko has reportedly expressed reluctance to consider a loan arrangement, which could complicate any move involving Colapinto’s return to Williams. Vowles acknowledged this challenge but left the door open for a solution, stating, “I want to make sure we understand what others are interested in and form our basis as to what’s the best solution for everyone.”
Colapinto’s potential future with Red Bull or another team is expected to be decided before the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi this December. As Vowles optimistically put it, “I’m confident before the last race of the season we’ll have nailed [a decision].” For now, Colapinto’s talent has ignited a bidding war that could see him land a significant role with a major team heading into 2025.
