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Albon Perez Norris welcome Colapinto to F1 Italian GP

Drivers underline there is less pressure for Colapinto: 'He has that'

29 August at 14:20
Last update 29 August at 14:50

Following the Dutch Grand Prix, Williams have announced that Franco Colapinto will replace Logan Sargeant. The young Argentinian driver will as a result make his debut this weekend at the Italian GP in Monza. Alex Albon, Lando Norris and Sergio Perez all commented on the latest driver to join the grid in Italy.

According to Albon, Colapinto will have to find a rhythm. "Franco is now joining, so there's a bit of a learning curve for him. But I think he's coming at the right moment. If I could choose a track to do my first race at, I think Monza is one of the more forgiving ones. I think that one's better than Baku or Singapore."

He continued: "It's a nice thing that, in my opinion, he knows the seat's not up for grabs next year. There's no pressure in terms of having to deliver and not trying to get a seat for next year. So, in some ways, I think it's more just a bit of experience. I don't know what Franco's going to do next year, but the things you learn in F1 can help you a lot into, let's say if he does another year in Formula 2 next year."

"So enjoy it. And of course, there is a bit of a learning curve, but he's been in the car a couple of times already, so I don't think it will be such a big thing. Maybe more about the physicality when we go to Qatar and Singapore. A difficult thing to get used to," gave his advice to the young Argentinian.

Norris and Perez agree

According to Lando Norris, joining the grid mid-season has its problems. "I think the main thing is he knows the track, he knows the car. It's just like external pressure. But I think he's a guy who can probably deal with it very well. I think the more difficult part of coming in mid-season is that we're on top of everything. We know how the tyres work, how everything works, and we're able to predict everything. For him, it's the complete opposite almost."

The driver who won the last Grand Prix in Zandvoort added: "And for him, that's going to be the tough part. But he's here for a reason because he's talented and he's a very good kid. And I'm sure he'll do just fine."

Sergio Perez also agreed with Albon about that Colapinto should enjoy these upcoming Grands Prix. "It's a massive challenge, definitely. But obviously, when you get the opportunity, you have to go for it. I think it will really speed up his learning now that he will be racing. He will see what Alex is doing, how the team works during the weekend, and that will open his mind so much to whatever he does next. I think he will be a much-prepared driver in the future, so I will just recommend him to enjoy his opportunity, enjoy the moment and maximise the chance."