Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen was not impressed with Franco Colapinto’s return to F1. The four-time world champion was pushing hard during the second practice session before Colapinto came in front of him. The incident happened during the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
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WATCH: Verstappen angry at Colapinto
The Red Bull driver was using the slipstream to get past Colapinto, but the Argentine driver was using the DRS to defend his position and stay ahead of Verstappen, just like he did in the races. Maybe Franco would have forgotten it was a practice session.
This completely spoilt Verstappen’s flying lap, and the Dutchman was frustrated with Colapinto’s DRS tactics. He raised his voice on his team radio, saying, “What’s this guy doing using DRS?” His race engineer replied, “No idea.”
Colapinto is replacing Jack Doohan at Alpine, who raced for the first 6 races. Colapinto’s return to F1 was imminent as he brings more sponsors and money to the Alpine F1 team compared with Doohan. But his tactics during the Imola GP practice session were not welcomed by the Red Bull driver.
Max Verstappen is trying everything to go faster than the two McLarens, but he is facing many struggles with his car, the traffic and sometimes the conditions. Franco Colapinto, on the other hand, is driving for the Alpine team alongside Pierre Gasly, who finished third in the FP2 session.
Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore initially said that Colapinto would have five races to prove himself. However, at the recent Imola GP, he stated that Colapinto will be available until the end of the season. The Argentine driver has a huge fan following, as he is the first Argentine-based driver in many years.
Max Verstappen’s future with the Red Bull team is uncertain. Given their current pace and progress, he could invoke a clause in his contract and leave the team by the end of 2025. Mercedes and Aston Martin are considered as the potential options for the Dutch driver.
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