Franco Colapinto, the young Argentinian driver, continues to impress in his debut Formula 1 season, scoring points in just his second race weekend at the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Stepping in for Logan Sargeant at Williams, Colapinto’s rapid rise has caught the attention of the F1 paddock, including Williams team principal James Vowles, who praised the 21-year-old’s calm demeanor under pressure.
After a solid debut at the Italian Grand Prix, Colapinto showed even more promise in Azerbaijan by finishing eighth, collecting his first career points and significantly outshining Sargeant’s previous results. Starting from 18th on the grid, he climbed to 12th in Italy, but it was in Baku that he truly shined, finishing just two seconds behind his seasoned teammate, Alex Albon, and out-qualifying the ex-Red Bull driver as well.
“What stands out most is how calm he is under pressure,” said Vowles, reflecting on Colapinto’s performance. “Formula 1 is a completely different world, where pressure increases exponentially, but Franco handles it with grace. Over the radio, you can hear how composed he is, always asking for more information. It’s a sign of a great driver who can thrive in high-stress environments.”
Colapinto’s performance has sparked rumors linking him to a potential seat at Sauber for 2025, as the team transitions to become Audi’s factory outfit in 2026. Initially, it was believed that Valtteri Bottas and Formula 2 leader Gabriel Bortoleto were the primary candidates for the spot alongside Nico Hulkenberg. However, Colapinto’s immediate success, combined with his strong sponsorship backing, has made him a serious contender.
For Vowles, who has already committed to helping Colapinto find a long-term place in the sport despite Williams being locked in with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, the young driver’s future looks bright. “He’s done an outstanding job,” Vowles said. “To score points in just your second Grand Prix and be so competitive with a more experienced teammate is extraordinary.”
Colapinto’s rapid progress in Formula 1 has raised eyebrows across the grid. His adaptability, particularly on unfamiliar circuits, is a quality that makes him stand out. “At Monza, we saw flashes of what he can do, but in Baku, to come to a new track and perform immediately in FP1, even after a setback, shows how well he absorbs pressure,” added Vowles.
With six races left in the 2024 season, the spotlight will be on Colapinto as he fights to secure a permanent seat in Formula 1. Whether he ends up at Williams or elsewhere, the Argentinian driver is proving he has the skill, composure, and talent to thrive at the pinnacle of motorsport. The next few races will be crucial as teams finalize their driver lineups for the 2025 season, and Colapinto is making a strong case for why he deserves a spot on the grid.
