Alpine discover Sergio Perez ‘goldmine’ as €20m Colapinto fee emerges

Alpine has taken a bold step to strengthen its Formula 1 future by signing rising star Franco Colapinto as its reserve driver for the 2025 season. This move, coupled with the potential to attract sponsors linked to Sergio Perez, positions the team for both competitive and commercial growth. Reports suggest that Alpine paid a substantial €20 million to Williams for Colapinto, signaling their commitment to nurturing talent and expanding their global presence.

Franco Colapinto: Alpine’s €20 Million Investment

The decision to sign Franco Colapinto came after his stellar performance with Williams in late 2024. Replacing Logan Sargeant, Colapinto impressed fans and critics alike, securing points finishes in Azerbaijan and the United States. His potential quickly made him a sought-after name in the paddock, with rumors briefly linking him to a seat at Red Bull.

However, Alpine’s adviser Flavio Briatore played a pivotal role in securing the 21-year-old for a five-year deal. Maria Catarineu, part of Colapinto’s management team, described the negotiations as “very intense,” reflecting Alpine’s determination to bring the Argentine talent onboard.

Latin America: Alpine’s Commercial ‘Goldmine’

Colapinto’s signing has opened the door for Alpine to tap into the lucrative Latin American market, traditionally a stronghold for Sergio Perez. Throughout his career, Perez enjoyed backing from major sponsors like Escuderia Telmex, led by Carlos Slim.

Slim’s comments to ESPN highlight the potential collaboration:

“We always seek to support Latin American drivers. Franco is doing very well, and we would be open to discussing something with him in the future.”

This statement underscores Telmex’s history of supporting talent across the region, from Bruno Senna to Esteban Gutiérrez. As Alpine builds its relationship with Colapinto, the team could unlock sponsorship opportunities that were previously tied to Perez, creating a win-win scenario for both parties.

Jack Doohan: Future in Question

While Colapinto’s arrival is a boost for Alpine, it raises uncertainties about the future of Jack Doohan. The Australian driver, set to partner Pierre Gasly in 2025, is reportedly on a short-term contract. Sources suggest his deal may only cover the first six races, making his future dependent on performance.

Flavio Briatore has publicly guaranteed Doohan’s start at the Australian Grand Prix but didn’t shy away from warning that underperformance could lead to changes. The competitive atmosphere at Alpine reflects their broader ambition to challenge for race wins by 2026.

Sergio Perez: A Legacy and a Hiatus

As Alpine eyes Perez-linked sponsors, the Mexican driver himself is taking a step back from the sport. Following his departure from Red Bull, Perez has announced a six-month hiatus to focus on his family and reflect on his next career move.

Speaking at a press conference in Leon, Mexico, Perez said:

“My priority is to enjoy myself, to do things I haven’t done, to be with my family. In the next six months, I’ll decide what I want for the next step in my career.”

Perez, who boasts six race wins and 39 podiums, remains Mexico’s most successful Formula 1 driver. However, at 35 years old, his long-term future in the sport remains uncertain.

Alpine’s Vision: Competitive and Commercial Growth

Alpine’s recent moves highlight a dual strategy: achieving competitive success on the track and leveraging commercial opportunities off it. With Colapinto’s signing and potential sponsorship ties to Sergio Perez, the team aims to strengthen its global appeal, particularly in Latin America.

The €20 million investment in Colapinto not only reflects faith in his talent but also signals a long-term commitment to building a stronger driver lineup. Coupled with Pierre Gasly’s experience and Jack Doohan’s potential, Alpine is laying the groundwork for sustained competitiveness.

On the commercial side, aligning with sponsors like Telmex could provide much-needed financial backing to support the team’s ambitious plans, including the development of a car capable of winning races by 2026.

Colapinto’s Role in Alpine’s Future

Franco Colapinto brings more than just on-track potential. His rising popularity, particularly in Latin America, aligns perfectly with Alpine’s strategic goals. As the team works to build its global fanbase, Colapinto’s presence could bridge the gap between Europe and the Americas, creating a broader support network.

Key Takeaways for Alpine

1. Strategic Talent Investment: Colapinto’s signing solidifies Alpine’s driver program, ensuring a pipeline of talent for the future.
2. Commercial Expansion: Leveraging Colapinto’s Latin American ties and potential Perez-linked sponsors could boost Alpine’s financial stability.
3. Performance-Driven Approach: The pressure on Jack Doohan to perform highlights Alpine’s no-nonsense attitude toward achieving results.
4. Long-Term Vision: With a focus on race wins by 2026, Alpine is positioning itself as a serious contender in the Formula 1 landscape.

Conclusion

Alpine’s €20 million investment in Franco Colapinto represents more than just a driver signing—it’s a statement of intent. By securing a rising star and exploring lucrative commercial opportunities, the team is preparing for a future of competitive and financial growth. As they gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how this bold strategy unfolds on and off the track.