Franco Colapinto Confirmed As Reserve Driver For Alpine In The 2025 Formula One Season

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Franco Colapinto has been signed by Alpine as a test and reserve driver for the 2025 Formula One season. This move follows an agreement with Williams, his previous team. Despite this addition, Alpine has confirmed Jack Doohan as their race driver for the start of the season, replacing Esteban Ocon. Colapinto first gained attention in F1 last year when he stepped in for Logan Sargeant at Williams during the Italian Grand Prix.

Colapinto's performance was notable, earning points at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and securing a 10th place finish in Texas. These achievements caught the eye of both Red Bull and Alpine. However, Red Bull's interest diminished after Colapinto faced three retirements in the final four races of the season. Alpine has also added Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa and Estonian Paul Aron to their roster as reserve and test drivers.

With these additions, Alpine now has a robust lineup of backup options behind their confirmed full-time drivers for 2025, Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan. Doohan is stepping up from his previous role as a test, reserve, and development driver. This strategic move strengthens Alpine's position for the upcoming season.

Colapinto expressed his excitement about joining BWT Alpine Formula One Team. He stated, "First of all, I want to say thank you to Williams for all their support from the moment I joined the Academy until the last race in Abu Dhabi. They turned my dream of racing in Formula One into reality, and I will always be grateful for that."

He continued by acknowledging key figures who facilitated his move to Alpine: "A huge thank you to Luca [de Meo], Flavio [Briatore] and Oliver [Oakes] for believing in me and welcoming me into the team with open arms." Colapinto looks forward to starting this new chapter with enthusiasm.

The Argentine driver also extended gratitude to his sponsors and fans: "A massive thank you to all my sponsors and partners who stood by me through the challenges of the 2024 season. Your support made it all possible, and to my incredible fans in Argentina: Muchas gracias! Your passion and encouragement mean the world to me."

As Franco Colapinto embarks on this new journey with Alpine, he aims for greater achievements in 2025 and beyond. His transition marks a significant step in his career while reinforcing Alpine's strategic plans for future success.