Argentine rookie Franco Colapinto is set to make his Formula One debut at the Italian Grand Prix this weekend, becoming the first driver from his country to compete in the sport in over two decades. Colapinto will replace Logan Sargeant at Williams, who has struggled this season.
Despite the excitement surrounding his debut, Colapinto has downplayed comparisons to football legend Lionel Messi, who is considered one of the greatest players of all time.
“It’s very difficult to feel as Lionel Messi, I don’t know how it is to feel that,” Colapinto said. “But sometimes I see that they compare me and I’m like, you guys are crazy, like Messi is God, it’s like you cannot, how are you comparing me?”
Colapinto has set modest expectations for his debut, acknowledging that Williams has had a challenging season.
“I am not expecting much… I just want to go step by step, I want to focus on myself,” he said. “That’s the main thing I think. To be able to be focused on my job. To be able to do what the team expects. And I am, to be honest, more than sure that I can do it.”
Colapinto’s debut will be a significant moment for Argentine motorsport, and he is eager to make the most of the opportunity.
“I’m very excited to be here, to be honest,” he said. “It’s a dream come true. I’ve been working for this for my whole life, so it’s a very special moment for me.”
The Italian Grand Prix will take place at the iconic Monza circuit, which is known for its high speeds and challenging layout. Colapinto will have two practice sessions on Friday to familiarize himself with the track before qualifying on Saturday and the race on Sunday.
