Franco Colapinto management issue statement after Oliver Bearman crash abuse

Franco Colapinto's management team have taken to social media to defend the Alpine driver following Oliver Bearman's huge Japanese GP crash.

Colapinto was the other driver involved in the incident, with his Alpine car going into harvesting mode approaching Spoon curve, whilst Bearman was deploying energy. 

The end result was a closing speed of just under 30mph, with Bearman forced to take avoiding action to not crash into the back of the Argentine, as the Briton slammed into the wall broadside, registering an impact of 50G.

Fortunately, Bearman was not seriously injured, with only a contusion on his right knee with some across social media blaming Colapinto, who was an innocent party in the sequence of events.

In the aftermath, Colapinto's management team took to social media to defend him against the "unjustified hate."

"A race to forget. Franco was unlucky with the timing of the Safety Car, which ruined his chances of fighting for points," read the post from BulletSportsManagement on X.

"We also can’t ignore the incident that led to Ollie Bearman’s crash, one in which Franco was not at fault.

"It was a consequence of the new energy management rules, as confirmed by the FIA’s official statement.

"Despite this, Franco is receiving unjustified criticism and hate, so let’s show him all the love and support he deserves."

A second post added that he had been subject to "name-calling."

"Guys, don’t worry. Franco is in great hands and has all the support he needs," it began.

"He’s stronger than you think, and negative comments or name-calling won’t affect him. Don’t waste your energy on the haters. Put it into supporting Franco instead. 

"He’s surrounded by the right people who are making sure he feels safe and happy, so you can relax."