On Tuesday Williams rocked the Formula 1 world, announcing that Logan Sargeant was sidelined with immediate effect and that F2 driver Franco Colapinto would be taking his place for the rest of the season.
While the idea of such a switch gained momentum over the Dutch Grand Prix, this still puts Colapinto straight into the fire as he heads to Monza to take on the “Temple of Speed” at this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix.
The young driver is excited for the challenge.
“I’m looking forward to my first full weekend in F1. It’s an exciting challenge and I’m ready to give it everything for this team,” said Colapinto in the team’s media preview of the Italian Grand Prix. “To be making my debut at the Temple of Speed is special with it being such an iconic track and one I’ve had success at it in the past. My aim is to take everything in, learn as much as possible and get up to speed from FP1 onwards. Hopefully we can have a positive weekend as a team.”
Alexander Albon took a moment to praise his former teammate, before turning his attention to Monza and the task at hand.
“Firstly, Logan has been a great team player for the past two years, and I know what he’s capable of, so it’s only a matter of time before he proves this to everyone in whatever he chooses to do next,” began Albon.
“Reflecting on Zandvoort, it was a tough weekend, and it’s vital that, as a team, we address the processes that led to the disqualification while acknowledging the silver lining that the car was competitive,” added Albon. “We have historically had a fast car in Monza, so I hope we can achieve a strong result and score some points.”
Sporting Director Sven Smeets noted that while points are the goal for Albon in Monza, the team views this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix as a “case of learning” for their newly promoted F1 driver.
“We are looking forward to racing in Monza as it is a unique track which should suit the FW46 well,” began Smeets. “We will be looking to score some points with Alex, whereas for Franco it will be a case of learning in every session and building up the confidence and speed ahead of Qualifying and the Race.
“The weather seems to be good all weekend with temperatures over 30°C which will make it a great event for the thousands of fans and a good closure of the European part of the Championship.”
Colapinto, along with the rest of the grid, will get their first crack at the revamped “Temple of Speed” on Friday.
