Formula 1: Williams Racing make change in its driver line-up
Williams Racing have announced a major change in its driver lineup for the rest of the 2024 Formula 1 season. The team has decided to replace American driver Logan Sargeant with Franco Colapinto, a promising young talent from Argentina. This decision comes after Sargeant's disappointing performance at Zandvoort, where he crashed his heavily upgraded car during FP3 in the Dutch GP. That car was packed with a precious new aero package, which was Williams' first major update of the season.
Colapinto to make his debut at Italian Grand Prix
Colapinto, a 21-year-old Argentine from the Williams driver academy, will debut alongside Alex Albon at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix in Monza. The young driver has shown some great promise in F2 this year, securing a victory at Imola. His promotion to Formula One comes as Sargeant's struggles continue, with the American driver having earned just one point for Williams at last year's US Grand Prix.
Williams Racing's strategy for remainder of F1 season
Williams' boss James Vowles admitted replacing a driver mid-season is challenging but stressed that the move aims to maximize Williams' chances of earning points in the remaining races. "We have just brought a large upgrade to the car and need to maximize every points-scoring opportunity in a remarkably tight midfield battle," Vowles stated. Despite his replacement, Sargeant will continue to be part of Williams Racing's setup.
Colapinto's journey and prospects in F1
Colapinto, the first Argentine in Formula One in 23 years, previously took part in the first practice at Silverstone before the summer break. Vowles expressed his confidence in the young driver's abilities, stating, "Franco is getting a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate what he is capable of across the final nine rounds of the season." He added that they are eager to see Colapinto's achievements in Formula One.
A look at his career
Colapinto joined the Williams Racing Driver Academy in early 2023 and debuted in FP1 at this year's British GP, getting his first experience with the FW46. The 21-year-old is in his second F2 season, standing sixth in the 2024 standings with one win and two second-place finishes. He will be the first Argentine driver in F1 in 23 years, since Gaston Mazzacane's last appearances with Prost in 2001, and only the second Argentine to drive for Williams.
