Argentina's next Formula One hopeful takes step closer to F1 grid

Franco Colapinto will become the first Argentinian to drive during a Formula One Grand Prix weekend for 23 years when he competes in first practice at the British Grand Prix for Williams.

The Williams junior's participation in the weekend's opening practice session will end a 23-year wait for an Argentinian to compete on a Formula One weekend since Gaston Mazzacane in 2001.

Colapinto has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the ranks to land a drive in Formula Two, the final step on the road to F1.

The 21-year-old won the Spanish F4 title in 2019 and is currently fifth in the FIA F2 Championship. He took his first win at that level at Imola this season, overtaking Paul Aron on the last lap in an audacious move.

The Williams junior is starting to build momentum in the middle of the European season racing at a series of circuits with which he is familiar.

Colapinto will replace the under-pressure Logan Sargeant during FP1 at Williams' home circuit. The American has floundered during his 18-month stint in Formula One and has consistently been outclassed by teammate Alex Albon.

Sargeant's struggles could open the door for Colapinto – who has rarely been mentioned as a contender for an F1 seat for next season – at Williams.

Recently, it seemed Carlos Sainz would line up alongside Albon at Williams for 2025. Alpine is potentially the Spaniard's most likely destination, as rumors swirl over a Mercedes customer engine deal from 2026.

Colapinto's outing on Friday will present all-new pressure for the Argentinian, who will be under the microscope of Formula One team bosses and a multitude of expectant sponsors.

He won't be the only F1 hopeful on the track; the Williams debutante will be joined by Red Bull Junior Isack Hadjar, Ferrari young driver Ollie Bearman and Alpine Academy member Jack Doohan.

Halfway through Colapinto's maiden F2 season, a Formula One contract for 2025 remains unlikely, but he has all the hallmarks of a driver ready to eventually get onto the grid.