In an unexpected turnaround that shook Formula 1 paddock, Ferrari’s heptacous world champion and rising star Lewis Hamilton shocked the world of motoring by suggesting that young Argentine pilot Franco Colapinto could be an ideal addition to the Italian team in the future. The statement caused commotion, especially at Alpine, where senior consultant Flavio Briatore seems to be on the brink of panic with the prospect of losing his promising star.
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari in 2025 after a successful career at Mercedes, publicly praised Colapinto on several occasions. Since his debut at Williams in 2024, the 21-year-old Argentine has shown exceptional talent, standing out in circuits such as Azerbaijan and Brazil, where Hamilton himself exceeded bold maneuvers. “Franco is pure talent. He has speed, charisma and a winning mindset. I think he would be perfect for Ferrari one day,” Hamilton commented after the Canada Grand Prix, where the two shared a fun press conference. These words not only reflect the British’s admiration for the young pilot, but also generated speculation about a possible change in the pilot market.
In turn, Flavio Briatore, known for his direct style and talent, did not hide his concern. Colapinto, who joined the Alpine as a reserve pilot and later as a starter after the 2025 Imola Grand Prix, is considered one of the Italian’s main bets to revitalize the French team. However, the Argentine’s initial results were mixed, with some accidents that generated criticism from Biatore. “Franco is young, but he needs to adapt quickly. I’m not happy with his mistakes, but he is still our future,” said the counselor after the Spain Grand Prix. Hamilton’s mention The collapint seems to have intensified the pressure on briatore, which fears Ferrari to try to steal its protected.
In Paddock, opinions are divided. Some experts believe that Hamilton is simply betting on a young talent, while others suspect that Ferrari may be evaluating Colapinto as a potential long -term teammate, especially if Charles Leclerc does not meet expectations. “Ferrari is always looking for new blood, and Colapinto has the ideal profile: young, fast and with a large fan base,” noted Nico Rosberg, a commentator at Sky F1.
Meanwhile, Colapinto remains calm. On social networks, the Argentine responded with his characteristic humor: “Thank you, Lewis, but for now I’m happy at Alpine. Although this money in Maranello seems tempting!” With the crisis driver market and the 2025 season in full swing, this “bomb” promises to keep fans at the tip of the chair. Will Biatore be able to keep its star or Ferrari can? Only time will say.
