Franco Colapinto delivers defiant message after Alpine promotion

Franco Colapinto has delivered a defiant message following the announcement of his promotion to an Alpine F1 race seat for at least the next five races. 

It was revealed on Wednesday morning that Colapinto will replace Jack Doohan from the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, before a further evaluation takes place ahead of Silverstone. 

Colapinto signed a multi-year deal with the Enstone-based team earlier this year, and had been one of its reserve drivers following his departure from Williams. 

He made his competitive F1 debut last season after replacing Logan Sargeant from the Italian Grand Prix onwards; however, he was not given a full-time seat for 2025.

His appearance in Imola will, therefore, mark his return to the grid since last year's season finale. Despite having not raced this campaign, Colapinto has stressed he is "ready" to return.

"Firstly, I want to thank the team for giving me the opportunity to drive competitively for the next five races," said Colapinto. 

"I will work hard with the team to prepare for the next race in Imola and the upcoming triple-header, which will no doubt be intense and a big challenge for everyone. 

"I have stayed sharp, and I am as ready as possible with the team’s race support testing programme, as well as on the simulator at Enstone. 

"I will do my best to get up to speed quickly and give it my all to deliver the best possible results alongside Pierre."