Bernie Ecclestone believes that a full-time F1 seat is on the horizon for Argentine rookie Franco Colapinto.
Following Audi-Sauber's announcement of Gabriel Bortoleto for 2025 and Colapinto's upcoming exit from Williams to make way for Carlos Sainz, the 21-year-old could be heading back to a reserve role.
With Colapinto's standout performances since replacing Logan Sargeant mid-season, both in racing and within the Argentine commercial market, fans on X expressed surprise at his lack of 2025 offers.
"Who informed you that Franco doesn't have any offers?" responded his manager Jamie Campbell-Walter to one fan.
Colapinto's management, which includes Maria Catarineu, has reportedly been in discussions with Red Bull. Rumors suggested Red Bull might position him with the junior RB team or even as Sergio Perez's replacement at Red Bull Racing.
One theory is that Red Bull might consider acquiring Sainz from Williams, allowing Colapinto to stay next to Alex Albon at Williams.
"Carlos is committed to Williams and he is not in our plans for next year," Red Bull boss Christian Horner clarified.
Reportedly, Red Bull turned down Williams' supposed $20 million fee for releasing Colapinto.
"It's a shame that Colapinto is being left out at the moment," former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone told Blick. "But I think he'll find a free place somewhere soon."
Adding to the speculation, La Gazzetta dello Sport suggested Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore might consider removing rookie Jack Doohan in 2025 to partner Colapinto with Pierre Gasly.
Some rumors even hint at a deal already being in place.
"I want to state categorically that this is not the case," clarified Maria Catarineu from Campbell-Walter's Bullet Sports Management, speaking to Carburando. "The truth is that nothing has been signed yet, but the desire to keep Franco in Formula 1 comes from all sides, including Williams. This is what they are working on.
"This is Williams' problem. They want Franco to stay in Formula 1 in 2025."
