Franco Colapinto, competing in only his third Formula 1 race, delivered a standout performance at this past weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, defending against veteran driver Sergio Pérez for more than 28 laps.
Despite finishing just outside the points, Colapinto’s defensive skills drew praise from the Mexican driver.
However, not all the feedback was positive, as some drivers on the grid criticized the rookie for his bold start to the race.
Impressive Start and Strong Defense
The 20-year-old Argentine driver started outside the top 10 but quickly made his mark, moving up four places after a bold move at Turn 1. Colapinto managed to hold onto ninth place and fend off Pérez, who struggled to find an opening on the tight street circuit.
“He’s very good, difficult to pass,” Pérez said over team radio as he remained behind Colapinto for much of the race.
Eventually, Pérez took advantage of a pit stop strategy, undercutting Colapinto after Williams pitted him a lap too late. Pérez finished 1.6 seconds ahead of the rookie, with both drivers unable to catch Nico Hülkenberg in front.
After the race, Pérez commended Colapinto’s performance.
“He did a fantastic race,” Pérez said. “He didn’t put a foot wrong. It was very difficult to keep up with him at the time, and it was just a difficult race.”
Franco Colapinto Reflects on the Battle
Despite missing out on a top-10 finish, Colapinto remained optimistic. The Williams driver acknowledged his mistake in staying out too long on the medium tires, which opened the door for Pérez’s undercut.
“I was trying to push,” Colapinto said. “Checo is a super nice guy. I grew up watching him race, waking up early in Argentina to support him as a fellow Latin American. It’s a pity to not finish with points after a good effort. But yeah, it is what it is. We made some mistakes that didn’t let us finish in the points.”
Sainz and Albon’s Reaction
Colapinto’s early progress through the field came with some risk, with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz expressing concern over the Argentine’s aggressive overtaking at the start.
“It was damage limitation for us today, especially after a very tricky start where we had to take avoiding action to a Williams that nearly took two or three cars out of the race,” Sainz said.
Even Colapinto’s teammate, Alexander Albon, voiced frustration over the radio, saying, “Franco just divebombed. What’s he doing?”
Looking to the Franco Colapinto Future
Colapinto has finished 12th, 8th and 11th in his first three F1 races, and his performances are drawing attention. Despite rumors surrounding other drivers, such as Valtteri Bottas and Gabriel Bortoleto for Sauber (Audi next season), Williams team principal James Vowles has said he is committed to securing a full-time seat for Colapinto next season.
Speaking on his bold start, Colapinto referenced the legendary line from Ayrton Senna.
“There was a pretty nice gap, and I went for it,” Colapinto said. “It worked out. It’s always important to leave Turn 3 in front of some cars, especially on a track like this.”
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