F3 race winner opens up on ‘dream Williams F1’ move
Teenager Colapinto, 19, made his debut in FIA Formula 3 last year with Van Amersfoort Racing, taking pole on debut in Bahrain before scoring sprint race victories at Imola and Monza. The Argentinian finished ninth in the drivers’ standings with three further podiums to his name.
Williams announced on Monday that Colapinto had become the latest young driver to join its junior programme, as well as confirming he would remain in F3 with MP Motorsport.
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Colapinto joins a Williams young driver roster that includes three-time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick, Formula 2 driver Roy Nissany and Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Award winner Zak O’Sullivan, who will also be racing in F3 this year.
Colapinto said:
“It’s a real honour to join Williams Racing Team as an Academy Driver,” said Colapinto.
“They are one of the most successful teams in Formula 1 history and I am looking forward to following in the footsteps of my fellow countryman Carlos Reutemann.
“It’s an incredible opportunity for which I am forever grateful. Thanks to everyone at Williams for putting their trust in me.
“I am also excited to announce that I will be back with MP Motorsport for the 2023 FIA F3 season. I really enjoyed my time with the team in Eurocup and FRECA and we achieved some great results together.
Williams sporting director Sven Smeets said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Franco to the Williams Racing Driver Academy,”
“His career achievements since starting karting highlight Franco’s natural ability behind the wheel and what he’s capable of in the years to come. He had a standout rookie season in Formula 3 with several strong performances that led to podiums and wins.
“We look forward to working closely with Franco to support and nurture his development as a driver.”
