Argentina's Formula 1 hopes have been reignited, thanks to improving economic conditions and the sensational debut of Franco Colapinto.
Supported by several Argentine sponsors contributing around $500,000 per race to Williams, the 21-year-old Colapinto recently stepped in for the underperforming Logan Sargeant and made an immediate impact in Formula 1.
While some reports suggest Sauber has chosen Valtteri Bottas to partner with Nico Hulkenberg next season, Williams boss James Vowles says discussions are ongoing about potentially loaning Colapinto to the Audi-owned team next year.
"For transparency, we are in conversations to see if that (Audi) is a route for him, where he could be on the grid with them for two years," Vowles told the Wall Street Journal.
"I've learned that the F1 driver situation is never truly settled," he added.
"It's good for us, we're signed, but I think next year you're going to see more movement."
Former Argentine F1 driver Miguel Angel Guerra believes Colapinto could have an impact on Argentina similar to that of Max Verstappen, in a country that hasn't hosted a Formula 1 race since 1998.
"We have an impressive driver now," Guerra told the famous Argentine sports magazine El Grafico. "He is the Argentine Verstappen. Any astute team boss should be talking to Colapinto."
Since Argentina lost its grand prix 26 years ago, the country's economic situation has worsened significantly. However, since libertarian president Javier Milei's election last year, there are now clear signs of recovery.
"Argentina is ready for the return of Formula 1," declared Argentine sports minister Daniel Scioli.
"A grand Prix is a global event," he added. "It provides jobs, international tourists and foreign currency. The conditions are there for us, as are the private investments that will finance the event."
"Argentines have once again set their sights on the top category of motorsport due to the Colapinto phenomenon," minister Scioli continued. "I have spoken with president Milei about bringing Formula 1 back to Argentina."
