Argentinian driver Franco Colapinto is on the verge of returning to Formula 1, and all signs point to him doing so at one of the most symbolic circuits of his career: Imola. His story in the highest category of motorsport seems to be shaping towards a key moment at this circuit, where he has been successful in the past.
Since his appointment as a reserve driver, Colapinto has been considered a serious option. His time at Williams, where he competed in nine races and scored points in two of them, validated his potential. Alpine's decision to incorporate him also responds to commercial factors, as an Argentinian sponsor would be willing to triple their investment if Colapinto becomes a full-time driver.
With a successful past backing his talent and a promising present, Imola presents itself as the perfect setting for this new chapter in Colapinto's career. According to the prestigious French newspaper L'Équipe, the driver would replace Jack Doohan at Alpine in the upcoming Grand Prix, returning to compete at a circuit where he has already triumphed twice, once in Formula 3 and once in Formula 2.
In 2022, Colapinto achieved his first international victory in Formula 3 at Imola in a thrilling finale. Two years later, at the same circuit, he won the Formula 2 Sprint Race with a memorable maneuver on the last lap, overtaking his teammate Paul Aron. The story seems to be written in his favor.
Doohan's replacement, who has not scored points in the first six rounds of the championship and had a discreet performance in Miami, has been in planning for a few days. These performances opened the door for Colapinto to return to the highest category of motorsport and once again demonstrate his skill at one of the most special circuits for him.
