Williams Wants to See Colapinto on the 2025 F1 Grid and is Open to Discussions with Sauber

Franco Colapinto impressed in his first two races after replacing Logan Sargeant. Williams team principal James Vowles believes in “allowing good drivers to race” while considering working with Audi to secure Colapinto a permanent Formula 1 seat. The Argentine driver started the year in F2 but was promoted to partner Alex Albon after struggling last season with Logan Sargeant.

Colapinto showed his speed immediately in his first race at the Italian Grand Prix and, despite a crash in Baku practice, recovered to surpass Albon in qualifying and scored his first points in Azerbaijan with an eighth-place finish.

Despite his impressive form, Colapinto’s career at Williams—at least for next season—is at a standstill, as Albon will be replaced by Carlos Sainz, announced as Albon’s 2025 teammate. With a seat open at Sauber, which will join Audi in a year, Vowles insisted he is open to discussions about Colapinto potentially joining Nico Hulkenberg at the rival team.

Vowles stated, “He’s shown the world in two races that he deserves a place in Formula 1.”

“That’s why I’ve always believed in allowing good drivers to race. We’ll see if we can find a way to work with Audi. That’s what I was implying for next year.”

“We’ll see what happens because our driver lineup is set. I still believe it’s the right lineup for Williams, as we are growing and becoming a world championship material.”

“But I’m incredibly proud of what Franco has achieved, almost like a father, and I want him to succeed. Also, the best way for him to return to Williams is to build his career. It’s as simple as that.”

Regarding the possibility of releasing Colapinto while keeping him within the family, Vowles responded, “I won’t go into contractual arrangements, but he will always be within the family. That’s what you need to know, but it doesn’t mean he can’t race elsewhere.”