From F2 Sim to F1 Dream: Franco Colapinto Discusses His Last-Minute Call-Up to Replace Logan Sargeant at Williams

Franco Colapinto discusses his unexpected Formula 1 promotion following his withdrawal from Formula 2 simulation by Williams

The driver stepping in for Logan Sargeant shares his thoughts on the surprising move to F1

Franco Colapinto, the Williams racer, has revealed the moment he learned that he would be taking over for Logan Sargeant at the upcoming Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix this weekend.

On Tuesday, Williams revealed that after the Dutch GP which took place last weekend, it would be ending its partnership with Sargeant and bringing in Colapinto to fill the position for the rest of the season.

Sargeant's performance with Williams did not see any progress throughout the 2024 season, culminating in the American driver crashing an upgraded vehicle during a practice session at Zandvoort.

Williams considered multiple choices before ultimately selecting Formula 2 newcomer Colapinto, who is set to make his first appearance this weekend at Monza.

In his first public comments regarding his unexpected promotion, Colapinto revealed to the press at Monza that he was in the simulator training for the F2 race until Monday, when Williams contacted him.

"He explained, 'Just picture this, on Monday, I found myself in the Formula 2 simulator, getting ready for the Monza race alongside my team. So, you can grasp how delayed everything was,'" he remarked.

"I'm not sure what was going through their minds, but it's a chance I've been prepared and eagerly anticipating for a very long time."

Growing up, I constantly fantasized about this moment becoming a reality. So, standing here today, addressing all of you, fills me with joy and immense gratitude for having this chance.

Naturally, it arrived much later than anticipated, and while I was prepared, I must admit, it caught me by surprise.

"I'm thrilled to be part of Williams; their support has been incredible, and the chance they've provided me is unbelievable."

Colapinto, who participated in the first practice session at Silverstone with Williams, mentioned that there were no prior conversations regarding this opportunity, and it wasn't something he had considered this year.

"He then said, 'I'm always prepared.'"

"I've served as a behind-the-scenes driver for them for some time. I participated in the first free practice session at Silverstone, and they were quite pleased with how I performed. I believe I was already on their radar prior to that."

"Undoubtedly, an unexpected turn of events for me. My concentration was solely on Formula 2, striving to excel in the remaining four races and dedicating myself to the team's preparations as much as I could."

"It deeply saddens me to part ways with them – MP Motorsport has been like a family to me for an extended period, having raced together since 2020. We progressed together, through various championships, and now, the time has come for me to move on."

"Having the opportunity to enter Formula 1 isn't something you can select the timing for, and it just so happens that my arrival coincides with this incredibly unique weekend here in Monza. Honestly, I'm extremely delighted and truly thankful."

Colapinto mentions that the team has set specific goals for him as he prepares for his first Formula 1 race, but he chose not to disclose them, sharing instead his personal expectations.

"I'm new to this and also just starting out in Formula 2, so I'm keeping my expectations low," he remarks.

As previously mentioned, my approach is to take things one at a time and concentrate on my own progress.

"I'm confident in my ability to concentrate on my work and meet the team's expectations. Honestly, I'm eager to get started and jump into the car tomorrow."

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