In a groundbreaking move that could reshape Formula 1’s future, Franco Colapinto has signed a monumental five-year contract with Alpine, effectively locking down his Formula 1 prospects with the French team. The deal, spearheaded by Alpine’s Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore, marks a dramatic coup for the team, poaching Colapinto from Williams and igniting speculation about his role in the team’s long-term plans.
From Rising Star to Alpine’s Future Bet
Colapinto first caught the F1 world’s eye when he stepped in for Williams during the Italian Grand Prix last season, replacing Logan Sargeant. Scoring points in two of his first four races, the young Argentinian driver quickly established himself as one to watch. His impressive performances even piqued Red Bull’s interest, though the energy drink giant eventually opted for in-house talent after a few late-season incidents.
For Alpine, however, Colapinto’s talent was too dazzling to ignore. With Briatore leading a relentless pursuit, the team secured an agreement with Williams to acquire Colapinto’s services. According to Maria Catarineu, Colapinto’s manager, the negotiations were lengthy but ultimately rewarding.
“It took a long time because negotiations are sometimes complex, as in this case,” Catarineu told Infobae. “But Flavio was always very persistent and, in the last few weeks, he was very intense.”
Flavio Briatore: The Architect of the Deal
Briatore, a legend in F1’s managerial circles, played a pivotal role in bringing Colapinto to Alpine. His obsession with the young driver began the moment Colapinto demonstrated he could hold his own against Alex Albon in his F1 debut.
“Flavio has seen Franco since he made his F1 debut,” Catarineu revealed. “The day we first chatted, he said: ‘I’ve seen talent, and I want him.’”
Briatore’s determination even extended to expressing interest in becoming Colapinto’s personal manager—a move that was ultimately vetoed by Colapinto’s current management team, Bullet Sports Management.
“It’s the best thing for everyone that Jamie [Campbell-Walter] and I are still in charge of Franco,” Catarineu explained. “Obviously, Flavio will be aware of everything that happens. This is teamwork.”
The Contract: A Five-Year Power Play
While Alpine’s press release described the contract as “multi-term,” Catarineu disclosed that the deal binds Colapinto to Alpine until 2029, a staggering five-year commitment. Unlike typical loan arrangements, Alpine now holds full control over Colapinto’s career trajectory, with any future moves requiring negotiation directly with the French team.
“Williams gave Franco to Alpine for five years,” Catarineu confirmed. “If another team appears interested in Franco, within that period, I guess it would be a negotiation between Alpine and the other team.”
This ironclad deal has fueled speculation that Colapinto may be groomed to replace Jack Doohan should the Australian falter in his rookie season.
What’s Next for Colapinto?
Colapinto’s move to Alpine cements his status as one of Formula 1’s most promising talents. While his immediate role will be as a reserve driver, his five-year contract suggests Alpine sees him as a key piece of their future plans. The team’s aggressive approach to securing Colapinto signals their commitment to building a driver lineup capable of competing with the sport’s elite.
Asked whether Colapinto will return to the F1 grid with Alpine, Catarineu played coy: “I’m not going to say what I feel.”
A New Era for Alpine?
As Alpine doubles down on its ambitions, the signing of Franco Colapinto could prove to be a masterstroke. With Briatore’s vision, the team has secured a driver who has already shown flashes of brilliance, ensuring that the road ahead for both Colapinto and Alpine is paved with opportunity.