Rising F1 talent Franco Colapinto is reportedly on the verge of signing a deal with Alpine for 2025, positioning him as a key player in the French team’s future plans. However, while the Argentine driver’s arrival adds depth to Alpine’s roster, it doesn’t immediately threaten Jack Doohan’s seat—at least for now.
Colapinto’s Meteoric Rise
Colapinto made headlines during his brief but impactful stint with Williams in 2024. Filling in for Logan Sargeant mid-season, Colapinto scored points in only his second race at Baku and followed it up with another strong showing in Austin. His performances earned him admirers across the paddock, including Alpine’s executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, who was seen in discussions with the young driver during the Qatar Grand Prix.
However, with Carlos Sainz already locked in at Williams for 2025, Colapinto’s path to a full-time F1 seat with the British team was effectively closed, prompting him to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Alpine’s Current Lineup: Gasly and Doohan
Alpine has confirmed its 2025 driver pairing of Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan, with Doohan making his full-season debut after replacing Esteban Ocon. Despite rumors about Doohan’s long-term prospects, Briatore has publicly backed the Australian, guaranteeing his seat for the start of the season.
“We’ll start the year with Pierre and Jack, I can guarantee that,” Briatore told Le Parisien. However, he also hinted at potential mid-season changes if Doohan fails to deliver. “If there’s a driver who isn’t making progress, who isn’t bringing me results, I change him. You can’t be emotional in F1.”
Colapinto: Alpine’s Contingency Plan
Colapinto’s imminent deal with Alpine is a strategic move for the team, ensuring they have a driver with F1 experience in their ranks. While Alpine’s current reserves, Paul Aron and Victor Martins, are restricted to Formula 2 experience, Colapinto’s performances in F1 have already proven his capabilities at the top level.
Briatore has openly expressed his interest in Colapinto, stating, “I’m interested in any driver who is fast. If there was an opportunity to get Colapinto for 2026, you have to think about it.”
The deal is also reportedly backed by Williams boss James Vowles, who is willing to negotiate Colapinto’s release to Alpine, seeing it as a stepping stone for the young driver’s career.
Pressure Mounts on Doohan
While Doohan has the green light to start the season, his performance will be under intense scrutiny. Speculation suggests his contract includes performance-related exit clauses, allowing Alpine to make changes mid-season if necessary.
Doohan’s home race in Melbourne will likely mark a critical milestone in his campaign, but with Colapinto waiting in the wings, the Australian driver faces a high-pressure environment to prove his worth.
Alpine’s Long-Term Strategy
Securing Colapinto aligns with Alpine’s vision for long-term success. The 22-year-old Argentine brings not only raw talent but also adaptability, as demonstrated during his stint at Williams. If Doohan underperforms, Colapinto could find himself promoted sooner than expected.
Additionally, with the 2026 regulation changes on the horizon, Alpine is building a versatile driver lineup capable of adapting to a new era of F1.
Conclusion
Franco Colapinto’s impending deal with Alpine is a testament to his rising stock in Formula 1. While Jack Doohan’s seat appears safe for the start of 2025, the presence of a proven performer like Colapinto will undoubtedly keep the Australian on edge. As Alpine solidifies its lineup for the future, all eyes will be on how this dynamic unfolds—and whether Colapinto’s growing reputation will see him take the spotlight once again.
