Williams driver Logan Sargeant was involved in a crash during the third free practice session before the Formula One Dutch Grand Prix last weekend. This incident led to a change in the team’s lineup, with Argentine driver Franco Colapinto stepping in to replace Sargeant for the remainder of the season, starting from the upcoming Italian Grand Prix.
Colapinto, a 21-year-old member of the Williams academy, made his FP1 debut at the British Grand Prix earlier this year. He is set to make history as the first Argentine driver in F1 in 23 years and only the second Argentine to drive for Williams after Carlos Reutemann.
Williams announced that Colapinto will partner with Alex Albon for the rest of the 2024 FIA Formula 1 World Championship season and will compete under the race number 43. The team is currently in ninth place among the 10 teams, with all four points scored so far credited to Albon.
The decision to replace Sargeant mid-season was not made lightly, but Team Principal James Vowles emphasized that it was done to give Williams the best chance of scoring points in the highly competitive midfield battle. Sargeant, who was set to depart at the end of the year, has been commended for his dedication and positive attitude during his time with the team. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz will join Williams next season after signing a multi-year deal in the previous month.