Franco Colapinto Raises Concerns About Closing Speeds in Formula 1: Addressing Safety Risks in 2026
Franco Colapinto expressed concerns about the potential dangers of closing speeds in Formula 1 in 2026 following Oliver Bearman's high-speed crash at the Japanese Grand Prix. The incident occurred when Bearman rapidly closed in on Colapinto at Spoon corner, leading to a collision as the Alpine driver was managing energy usage. Colapinto highlighted the significant speed difference between the cars, emphasizing the need for caution in such situations.
Colapinto described the incident as unexpected and highlighted the challenges posed by the drastic speed differentials between cars on track. He noted the precarious nature of the situation, especially when cars are not on straight sections of the circuit. Despite finishing 16th in the race, Colapinto expressed relief that Bearman emerged unscathed from the crash and commended his well-being after the incident.
This incident was not an isolated one for Colapinto in the 2026 season, as a similar situation occurred at the Australian Grand Prix with Liam Lawson. The Racing Bulls driver's slow start due to battery issues nearly resulted in a collision with Colapinto, underscoring the need for improved safety measures to address the challenges posed by varying speeds on track. Colapinto stressed the importance of addressing these issues to enhance safety and prevent potentially dangerous situations in future races.
Colapinto emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the closing speeds issue by the FIA to ensure the safety of drivers on the track. He highlighted the artificial nature of some overtaking maneuvers and the risks associated with sudden speed differentials between cars. By addressing these concerns and implementing appropriate measures, Colapinto believes that Formula 1 can enhance safety and mitigate the risks associated with high-speed incidents on the track.