James Vowles sends 2-word message to Franco Colapinto as the Argentine is confirmed for the 2026 F1 season by Alpine

Williams team principal James Vowles has come up with a message for Franco Colapinto following the latter's confirmation for 2026 by Alpine. The Argentine has been driving for the Enstone-based outfit since Round 7 of the 2025 F1 season.

Franco Colapinto drove for James Vowles' Williams Formula 1 team in 2024 and amassed five points in the few opportunities he had. In January this year, he joined Alpine as a reserve driver before getting into the A525 during the Emilia-Romagna race weekend. In that event, Colapinto ended his outing in P16 ahead of Haas driver Oliver Bearman.

Since then, Colapinto has been regularly driving the challenger but has yet to amass a single point. During the ongoing race weekend at Interlagos (Brazilian GP), it was rumored that he was going to be confirmed by Alpine for 2026, and this is exactly what happened.

In line with the 22-year-old's confirmation, several esteemed personnel have given their opinion, and James Vowles, via Instagram, has come up with a lovely message:

"Congratulations Franco!"

Franco Colapinto made his debut in the pinnacle of motorsport in 2024 during the Italian Grand Prix. He drives with the #43 and has so far amassed 22 race starts. In Round 20 (Mexican GP) of the ongoing campaign, he managed a P16 finish behind his senior teammate Pierre Gasly.

"Potential to be a top driver!!": Flavio Briatore's take on Franco Colapinto's extension for 2026

F1 Belgian Grand Prix 2025 - Source: Getty

While James Vowles has congratulated Franco Colapinto on extending his Alpine contract for 2026, the French team's Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore, has also come up with his take. In line with this, Briatore has showered praise on Colpainto and added the following via F1.

"I’ve been following Franco’s progress throughout his time in Formula 1 and I have always believed that he has the right attributes and potential to be a top driver who can grow with the team. Our decision to continue together for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver." "It has been a tough year for the whole team, and it hasn’t been the easiest scenario to perform in, however both Franco and Pierre have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season. With the line-up of Pierre and Franco, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help drive the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer and shout about next season."

Only four races remain in the 2025 F1 season, and with Franco Colapinto having finally secured his future for 2026, he will be able to drive much more freely in the remaining events.

Edited by Rishabh Negi