Williams team principal James Vowles has revealed Franco Colapinto is only on loan to Alpine, explaining that he wanted to ensure the Argentine had a chance to race, but that he expects him to return to Williams.
Colapinto (pictured above, with Vowles) was named as one of the Alpine reserve drivers on a multi-year deal in January, after he lost his Williams race seat due to Carlos Sainz’s pre-agreed arrival for 2025. At the time, Vowles had said the move was approved because it represented Colapinto’s best chance of being on the grid this year, but he has now confirmed the plan includes his eventual return to Williams.
“I’m trying to think how Alpine described it — that’s the important part,” Vowles said. “The main thing is this: What was already described here, he’s with Alpine and he’s an Alpine driver for a number of years; their choice [how he’s used], fundamentally within a range of what they want to choose from that. After that point, I hope he comes back to Williams. Let’s see where we end up.”
Pushed on the situation, Vowles confirmed he was keen to see Colapinto racing in place of Jack Doohan at some stage this season, in order to gain further experience.
“There’s a period of time where I hope he is racing for Alpine. The reason why we did this is that I wanted him to be racing in ’25 and/or ’26. It’s the best chance he has, is with Alpine — that’s why he’s there. And I don’t mean that to the detriment of Jack.
“I hope Jack has a successful time. But ultimately, Franco is my driver that I want back in that car. After a period of time, he’ll return to Williams. That period of time is not a line set in stone where I can look you in the eye and say it. But I can say he’ll be back to Williams at some point.”
Colapinto took part in nine races for Williams last season and scored five points, having replaced Logan Sargeant from the Italian Grand Prix until the end of the year. Both Sainz and Alex Albon have deals in place for both 2025 and ’26 as the Williams race drivers, carrying over into the new era of cars next year.
