The 2024 season has arguably been one for the books. With the subtraction of Logan Sargeant and the addition of Franco Colapinto, the grid has undergone a huge transformation. Colapinto has managed to wow Formula 1 fans everywhere in just a few races. Unfortunately, it does not look like he will stay on the grid next year.
As for the last remaining seat on the grid, no official announcement has been made. Any driver could end up driving for Audi/Sauber as multiple drivers are connected to the seat. One of those drivers, Franco Colapinto, has been mentioned several times in contention for the seat. However, it looks like the rumors will be just that.
Franco Colapinto hints at a career outside of F1 for 2025
Franco Colapinto spoke about his future in F1 in the media pen after the Mexican Grand Prix. Colapinto admitted that he currently does not have a seat. He also noted that he was unaware of where those rumors were coming from. One thing he did have to say was that he thought he was “probably going to be racing somewhere else” (Motorsport).
Franco Colapinto is the fastest rookie in the bunch 🔥🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/yjSkuP7HjG
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) October 25, 2024
He did not mention where that could be. Colapinto still has eligibility to return back to Formula 2 as he has not won an F2 championship and is not classified as a full-time F1 driver. Before going into F1, Alex Albon had a seat for Formula E. Could we see Colapinto go the route Albon had been slated for?
Franco Colapinto’s long-term plan for a comeback into F1
Franco Colapinto has used his 5 minutes of fame very wisely. In no time he has wowed the crowd and grid into wanting him on the 2025 grid. Between his charismatic interviews and impressive driving, his future has been a hot topic. Many people believe that he has potential and should be joining the grid soon.
Scored his first ever points in Formula 1, in only his second race.
Ladies and gentlemen, Franco Colapinto 👏 pic.twitter.com/UEiSc7p8E8
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) September 15, 2024
Colapinto is working towards a seat on the F1 grid using the time he has to prove himself. His plan is “to be showing that I deserve a seat here enough to come back in ’26 or ’27” (Motorsport). In addition to being a Williams junior driver, he has a long-term contract with them. However, both Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon are staying at Williams for the foreseeable future.
Could we see Franco Colapinto rejoin the grid in 2026? When he does return to the grid, will it be with Williams?
