Franco Colapinto’s management team stepped in after last Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix to defend the young Argentine amid a storm of online backlash following his involvement in Oliver Bearma’s frightening crash at Suzuka.
The incident itself was as dramatic as it was complex. Colapinto’s Alpine dropped into energy harvesting mode approaching Spoon Curve, while Bearman was at full deployment – creating a dangerous speed delta that left the Haas driver with nowhere to go.
The result: a swerve off the track and a 50G impact into the barriers, leaving Bearman battered and bruised but fortunately uninjured, save for a minor knee contusion.
Still, fingers were pointed. Sky F1 pundit Jacques Villeneuve publicly suggested Colapinto bore responsibility for the dramatic incident, while Bearman himself suggested the Alpine driver coild have given him more room.
Online however, the reaction was harsher – swift, emotional, and at times toxic. But Colapinto’s management, BulletSportsManagement, didn’t hold back.
“A race to forget. Franco was unlucky with the timing of the Safety Car, which ruined his chances of fighting for points,” read their statement.
“We also can’t ignore the incident that led to Ollie Bearman’s crash, one in which Franco was not at fault.
“It was a consequence of the new energy management rules, as confirmed by the FIA’s official statement.
“Despite this, Franco is receiving unjustified criticism and hate, so let’s show him all the love and support he deserves.”
A familiar pattern in a fiery fanbase
This isn’t the first time Colapinto’s name has ignited strong reactions online.
The Argentine’s passionate fanbase – fiercely loyal and highly vocal – has previously gone after rival drivers perceived to have wronged him on track, with the group sending death threats to Esteban Ocon after the Frenchman’s clash with Colapinto in China.
Now, the roles have reversed. And the backlash has exposed the volatile ecosystem surrounding rising stars in Formula 1, where support can quickly morph into hostility.
In a follow-up message, Colapinto’s team sought to calm the storm – and shield their driver from the noise.
“Guys, don’t worry. Franco is in great hands and has all the support he needs,” the second post began.
“He’s stronger than you think, and negative comments or name-calling won’t affect him. Don’t waste your energy on the haters. Put it into supporting Franco instead.
“He’s surrounded by the right people who are making sure he feels safe and happy, so you can relax.”
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