Imola, Italy — No matter your age or where you’ve raced before: Franco Colapinto is back in Formula 1 , roaring like a lion in the Alpine paddock. During Media Day at Imola, the Argentine driver held nothing back. Between laughter, football anecdotes, and a determined look ahead to 2025, Colapinto sent a clear message: “I’ll need more than five races, but I’m going for it . “
And while the young driver speaks confidently, someone else seems to be having a rough day: Liam Lawson . The New Zealander, who until recently was the favorite to inherit a starting seat, sees his chances vanish in the face of Franco’s overwhelming presence. Some call it “crying,” others simply resignation.
France, the World Championship, and Formula 1: Colapinto Warms Up Engines and Hearts
In an unexpected and amusing confession, Colapinto joked about his desire to see France lift the World Cup while he earns respect on the circuit. “You have to support the team that puts the most passion into it, like I do at Alpine,” he laughed, prompting applause and laughter from the journalists present.
Franco doesn’t just want to be a driver: he wants to be a symbol of the new F1. Young, talented, unfiltered, and hungry for glory .
The Reign of Doohan and Oakes Is Over
The game is over for Jack Doohan and Zak O’Sullivan . While many saw them as the next big thing, Briatore placed his bets on Colapinto and he wasn’t wrong. Alpine has already confirmed his presence for the entire 2025 season , live and in person. There’s no room for speculation: Franco will be the main driver , and the fans are already celebrating.
Of course, this has left some “widows” in the paddock. Doohan fans fill forums, social media, and comments with complaints and criticism. But the truth is clear: F1 waits for no one , and Franco earned his place through hard work, talent, and character .
Comparisons with Hamilton, Verstappen and Antonelli
Those familiar with Colapinto’s competitive nature aren’t surprised. “He’s a lion like Hamilton, a strategist like Verstappen, and as ferocious as Antonelli ,” say those within the Alpine team. Comparisons that, far from being uncomfortable, motivate the Argentine even more.
Furthermore, the technical team has been impressed by his adaptability, constant feedback, and a maturity that disarms skeptics . In less than a week, Colapinto has already made his mark on the French factory.
Briatore Se Sale with Suya
Flavio Briatore , that always controversial but visionary figure, is smiling again. His insistence on bringing Colapinto back was harshly criticized by the more conservative media and fans. But as in the old days, the Italian is right again .
“This kid has something you can’t teach: a champion’s instinct,” Briatore told the official F1 channel. And with good reason. The statistics, simulator data, and tests confirm it: Franco Colapinto is here to stay .
And Gasly, Mujica or the Bride?
Today is not the day to talk about Pierre Gasly , Andrés Mujica , or hallway rumors about girlfriends, brands, or sponsors. Today, there’s only one name: Colapinto . This Argentine phenomenon is stealing the spotlight, not because of his marketing, but because of his athleticism and natural charisma .
F1 OLE 2025: A Season of Madness
Formula 1 in 2025 is absolutely crazy . From unexpected battles to new heroes, to the ever-growing Latin American fever. From Estonia to Uruguay , every Grand Prix is a celebration, and Colapinto is an essential part of this new era.
Whether you’re a veteran or new to F1, follow every race, every onboarding session, every recap , because anything can happen this year . And if you want to stay up to date with the best of the season, don’t forget to follow F1 Live on our channel , where we bring you the highlights from every track.