SAO PAULO — The Brazilian Grand Prix is resonating with Spanish, thanks in large part to Franco Colapinto, the rising Formula 1 sensation from Argentina.
Thousands of Argentinians have descended upon Interlagos to support Colapinto, who is making waves as the latest sports icon in F1. Despite finishing 12th in the Mexican Grand Prix last week, a position that fell outside the points standings, the 21-year-old driver for Williams has managed to accumulate five points since the Italian Grand Prix on September 1. This tally is one more point than his predecessor, Logan Sargeant, secured throughout the entire previous season.
Tourism agencies estimate that about 10,000 Argentine fans have arrived in São Paulo for the race weekend, contributing to around one-sixth of the anticipated total crowd at the Interlagos circuit. These supporters made their presence felt during Friday’s practice sessions and sprint race qualifying by proudly displaying their national colors through hats, flags, and soccer jerseys, all in a spirited effort to uplift Colapinto, who is currently the only South American racer on the Formula 1 grid.
One banner held aloft expressed the rallying cry, “Franco, 46 million Argentinians are with you,” as fans collectively encouraged their compatriot.
For many Argentinian fans, the memories of historical F1 champions like Juan Manuel Fangio and Carlos Reutemann remain vivid, although the last Argentine to compete was Gastón Mazzacane, who did not manage to score any points during his brief stint. Among the enthusiastic crowd was 52-year-old fashion designer Anna Rosatti, who has traveled to her first-ever Formula 1 event inspired by Colapinto. She fondly recalls viewing races with her parents during the reign of Reutemann and expressed her admiration for Colapinto’s perseverance in the sport. Dressed in patriotic colors and carrying national flags, Rosatti reflects the sentiment of many fans who see Colapinto’s journey as a reflection of their national pride.
Support for Colapinto extends even beyond Argentinian fans; Brazilian viewers like Felipe Santos, 42, also appreciate the young driver’s tenacity and charm. “He is funny, but he is also a fighter,” Santos commented. “We’re passionate about racing here. It’s not about teams or countries; it’s about the love for the sport.”
James Vowles, the Williams team principal, mentioned that discussions are underway with other teams regarding Colapinto’s future in Formula 1 for next season. “We are actively working with teams that are interested to try and find the right arrangement that helps Franco, that protects Franco as well, and protects all parties,” Vowles stated on Friday.
During the sprint race qualifying, Colapinto made headlines by eliminating former F1 champion Fernando Alonso and finishing 14th, just five positions behind his teammate Alexander Albon. The support from his fellow Argentinians at Interlagos energized Colapinto. “It was just amazing to see all the support I received here, those travelling fans coming to the race and creating such a joyful atmosphere,” he shared. “It was a hard afternoon, but let’s see what we can do tomorrow. There’s a lot still to happen this weekend.”