Franco Colapinto’s Rise Sparks Alpine’s 2025 Line-Up Reconsideration
The Formula 1 driver market is experiencing significant upheaval as Alpine F1 Team reconsiders its 2025 lineup, potentially replacing their confirmed driver, Jack Doohan, with the emerging talent of Franco Colapinto. This development follows Colapinto’s impressive performances since joining Williams mid-season.
Jack Doohan, the 21-year-old Australian and son of five-time 500cc motorcycle world champion Mick Doohan, was announced in August as Alpine’s driver for the 2025 season, set to partner Pierre Gasly. As Alpine’s reserve driver since last year, he finished third in the 2023 Formula 2 Championship.
However, Franco Colapinto’s recent performances have disrupted these plans. The 21-year-old Argentine joined Williams in September 2024, replacing Logan Sargeant. In his six races to date, Colapinto has scored five points, significantly outperforming Sargeant, who managed only one point in 36 races. Colapinto’s consistent point-scoring finishes have not only bolstered Williams’ standings but have also caught the attention of rival teams.
This massive change has also upset the odds now at many online sportsbooks. While not much has changed at the top with Max Verstappen still a +333 (10/3) favorite to win the next match, Formula One racing has become a major draw among iGamers. However, in the last few seasons, things were growing a little stale with Max Verstappen and Red Bull’s dominance. However, this season, amid all the drama of the season and the perks of new-age betting platforms like crypto sports betting site options, punting on formula has grown massively popular again.
According to iGaming expert Frank, these crypto-based sites bring a host of new benefits to the fore. These include instant withdrawals, a wider range of betting options, generous bonuses, and quicker sign-ups. With the likes of exciting new drivers like Colapinto keeping things fresh, players have more options than ever to build exciting and tailored bets for F1 races.
Alpine’s executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, is reportedly keen on securing Colapinto’s services for the 2025 season, potentially at the expense of Doohan. This interest is indicative of Colapinto’s rising stock within the F1 paddock. The situation is further complicated by Red Bull’s reported interest in Colapinto as a potential replacement for Sergio Perez, should they decide to promote Liam Lawson to the senior team.
As of November 9, 2024, the driver standings reflect the impact of these developments. Colapinto’s five points have contributed to Williams’ position in the Constructors’ Championship, where they are currently eighth with 17 points, just ahead of Alpine, who sit ninth with 13 points. This close competition between the teams adds another layer of complexity to the driver market dynamics.
The potential reshuffling of drivers underscores the fluid nature of Formula 1 team strategies, where emerging talents can rapidly alter team compositions and future plans. For Jack Doohan, this development introduces uncertainty into what seemed a secured future in F1 with Alpine. For Franco Colapinto, it presents an opportunity to solidify his place in Formula 1, potentially with a team that recognizes and seeks to capitalize on his recent performances.
The Formula 1 driver market is in a state of flux, with Franco Colapinto’s impressive debut season prompting Alpine to reconsider their 2025 lineup. This situation highlights the competitive and ever-changing nature of Formula 1, where driver performances can swiftly influence team decisions and the broader competitive landscape.