Breaking: Alpine confirm Colapinto signing

Alpine has sensationally secured the services of Franco Colapinto by naming the Argentine as its test and reserve driver for the coming F1 season.

Colapinto burst onto the F1 stage last season as replacement for Logan Sargeant following Williams' decision to axe the American driver as team principal James Vowles felt he had reached the limit of his ability and in the wake of several high-profile crashes.

Colapinto scored points in two of his first four races in Azerbaijan and the United States, thrusting him into the spotlight for a move to Racing Bulls.

In the background, Williams found itself besieged by Argentine and Latin American sponsors looking to jump on the bandwagon as Colapinto found himself becoming a hero in his home country starved of F1 notability. 

The 21-year-old, however, was involved in crashes in São Paulo and Las Vegas at a time when Williams was living on the edge in terms of its resources, pushing him out of the picture for a seat at Racing Bulls.

Alpine, however, was also expressing an interest, and far from being put off by Colapinto's performances, has continued talks with Williams in the background, leading to a surprise move.

The team goes into the season with Pierre Gasly and rookie Jack Doohan as its driver pairing, although the latter will be under pressure to deliver early on knowing Colapinto is now waiting in the wings to poach his seat.

After announcing earlier on Thursday that Japanese Ryo Hirakawa will also be a reserve and test driver for this season, Alpine has now announced the arrival of Colapinto on a multi-year deal.

Colapinto anxious for Alpine journey to start

Describing his feelings in joining Alpine, Colapinto said: "I am super excited to have the opportunity to join Alpine.

"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.

"Now, it is time for a new chapter, and to take on this challenge with Alpine is truly an honour.

"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. I cannot wait to get started and see where this journey takes us.

"Also, 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. Let’s aim for even greater things in 2025 and beyond."