Brundle predicts next F1 driver to be axed? 'Out like a broken lightbulb'

12:50, 09 Aug

Updated: 13:17, 09 Aug

byNorberto Mujica

Martin Brundle has cast doubt over Franco Colapinto’s performances and prospects in Formula 1, suggesting his future beyond 2025 is far from secure.

Speaking during Sky Sports’ coverage of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Brundle said questions remain over both the Argentine’s form and his sponsorship situation.

Brundle questions Colapinto’s form and future

“Colapinto, he’s still in it, isn’t he? You hear different stories about his sponsorship, arriving, not arriving,” Brundle said.

“He’s certainly not doing a particularly good job. He looked really spectacular in the early days at Williams, didn’t he? Then he crashed a lot at Williams after that. So, it doesn’t bode well. I think 2026 definitely doesn’t bode particularly well.”

Flavio Briatore, Alpine F1 team's executive advisor

Brundle also noted the influence of Flavio Briatore, who is part of Colapinto’s management. “The trouble is with Flavio, as I know well, you’re a disposable item as a racing driver, generally speaking."

"That’s sort of been his MO through the years because this is a competitive business, not a finishing school, something I’ve said many times before. If you don’t deliver, you’re like a light bulb. They’ll take you out and put another bulb in.”

However, GPblog understands that Colapinto's race seat is secured for the remainder of the 2025 season.