Williams F1 driver Alex Albon has called Logan Sergeant’s mid-season removal from the team “tough” in a message to the American after his season-and-a-half spell with the Formula One team came to an abrupt end.
Sergeant, who collected a point across his Williams career, will be replaced by academy driver Franco Colapinto, with Team Principal James Vowles saying the decision offers “the best chance to compete for points over the remainder of the season”.
“I know first-hand how brutal this sport can be,” Albon said on social media. “It’s tough to see Logan leave the team mid-season.
“You gave it your all, brother, and it’s been a pleasure being team-mates with you. I know whatever you do next, you’ll be awesome.”
I know firsthand how brutal this sport can be & it’s tough to see Logan leave the team mid-season. You gave it your all brother and it’s been a pleasure being teammates with you. I know whatever you do next, you’ll be awesome. pic.twitter.com/7QSMmpBJlO
— Alex Albon (@alex_albon) August 27, 2024
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Sergeant thanks Williams
The ousted 23-year-old became the first driver from his country to score a Formula One point in 30 years at last year’s US Grand Prix.
“I would like to say how grateful I am to Williams for giving me the opportunity to race in Formula One,” Sergeant said. “I am very grateful for the support I have received from everyone in the team since joining the academy in 2021.
“Getting behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car in Abu Dhabi was an unforgettable experience… I am proud to have represented a historic team over the last two seasons.”
Colapinto is the first Argentine F1 driver for 23 years and will join Albon, who has taken four points this season and finished 14th in Sunday’s Dutch Grand Prix, two places above Sergeant.
We’d like to thank Logan for everything he has done the past two seasons.
He will remain a member of the Williams family and we will be supporting him to continue his racing career. pic.twitter.com/yHIy3j94nD
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) August 27, 2024
Colapinto: ‘Huge potential’
“We have just brought a large upgrade to the car and need to maximise every points-scoring opportunity in a remarkably tight midfield battle,” said Vowles.
“We also believe in investing in our young drivers in the Williams Racing Driver Academy, and Franco is getting a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate what he is capable of across the final nine rounds of the season.
“This is undoubtedly incredibly tough on Logan, who has given his all throughout his time with Williams, and we want to thank him for all his hard work and positive attitude.
“Logan remains a talented driver and we will support him to continue his racing career for the future. I know that Franco has great speed and huge potential, and we look forward to seeing what he can do in Formula 1.”
