After Red Bull, another surprise team targets Franco Colapinto - Reports

Alpine is reportedly eyeing Franco Colapinto as its driver in the future despite having a fixed lineup for the 2025 F1 season. Red Bull was earlier said to be in contact with the Argentine, who debuted this season with Williams.

He replaced Logan Sargeant, who had been racing with the team since the 2023 season. Colapinto debuted at the Italian Grand Prix and has scored points in two races, being much more competitive than the team's previous driver. His racecraft has also impressed other teams on the grid. While he might have been a contender for a seat at VCARB, it has been reported that Red Bull is directly in contact with him.

However, reports now suggest that Alpine has joined the race for Franco Colapinto. Although the French outfit already has Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan for the 2025 season, it might well be looking for more competitive options in the future.

The team's performance has declined in recent seasons (except for its phenomenal strategic choice that got both cars up to the podium in Brazil). Alpine has gone through multiple management changes, and is still in a transitional phase with Flavio Briatore.

Alpine is also the only team on the grid running under the Renault-powered engines. However, that is to change soon. Renault earlier confirmed that it would stop its work in Formula 1 after 2025 and Alpine will switch to the Mercedes power unit in 2026. With new regulations, it could be a huge opportunity for the French team.

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Williams set $20 million price tag on Franco Colapinto amid Red Bull interest: Report

Although Red Bull extended Sergio Perez's contract till the 2026 season earlier, his performances have been rather questionable recently. He was expected to improve during the length of the season. However, with his subpar results in races and RBR losing its dominant position at the top, the team has moved to third place in the constructors' championship.

The Mexican's future with the team is under question and Franco Colapinto has seemingly enjoyed his emergence at the right time. Although Red Bull might consider signing him in the future, a report from RacingNews365 claims that Williams has set a $20 million price tag on him if the Milton Keynes-based team wants to sign him.

Williams has its 2025 lineup decided. With Alex Albon continuing to race, it signed Carlos Sainz as he will be leaving Ferrari at the end of this season. But, Williams will likely be resistant to let go of Colapinto as he is emerging as a strong and competitive driver.