James Vowles discusses what’s been ‘exceptional’ since Franco Colapinto signed for Williams

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Franco Colapinto has been parachuted into the Williams for the final nine F1 races and has attracted considerable sponsorship interest, particularly from his native Argentina.

The Williams driver is replacing Logan Sargeant, who underperformed during his season and a half in Formula 1.

Colapinto has performed admirably during his rookie FIA F2 season. He took one victory in the Sprint Race at Imola, pulling off a bold move while battling Paul Aron on the last lap.

The nine races in F1 are a vital opportunity for the Argentinian and he has slightly less pressure than usual as there is no seat available at Williams for 2025.

Franco Colapinto signing for Williams has boosted sponsorship interest from Argentina

Colapinto is the first Argentine driver to race in Formula 1 since Gaston Mazzacane, who last raced for Prost in 2001.

The nation has a rich history in Formula 1, but it hasn’t had a driver to follow for 23 years. The introduction of the Williams driver into F1 for the rest of the season will surely energise support for the championship in Argentina.

Colapinto hasn’t had much money to rely on throughout his career which has added an extra complication compared to some other drivers as he’s progressed.

The Williams team principal, James Vowles, explained the outfit has been receiving a lot of phone calls from companies interested in sponsoring the car.

He told Sky Sports: “He brings no money with him. What’s been exceptional is, since the announcement, the phone hasn’t stopped ringing with Argentine companies coming on board.

“You will see stickers on the car that have the right value. It’s not money because of Franco, it’s because they want exposure on the car and proud of the fact we have an Argentine driver.

“If you know him enough, you will know his career has been on a shoe-string budget. He hasn’t got anything to his name.”

It’s vital for Franco Colapinto to avoid mistakes at Williams

Colapinto has been given an excellent opportunity in Formula 1 and it is vital for him to keep the car on the circuit.

The car is a huge step up from anything he has driven previously, and with many more setup changes available on the steering wheel, he will have a lot to learn.

READ MORE: Everything to know about Williams driver Franco Colapinto with praise to stats

Williams’ new driver performed well earlier this year in first practice ahead of the British Grand Prix, making minimal errors.

During the final nine races of the season, any incidents could knock his confidence, especially as some of the tracks are brand new to the 21-year-old, such as Singapore and Las Vegas.