Colapinto might be in trouble over merchandise joke

Franco Colapinto admits he might have landed himself in a bit of trouble with Williams after a cheeky joke.

With Carlos Sainz set to take over his race seat next year, Colapinto, who debuted mid-season, has been offered a loan move to Audi-Sauber for 2025 by Williams team principal James Vowles.

"If he doesn't get a place there, I'll have the best reserve driver in the sport," Vowles told Auto Motor und Sport earlier this week.

In addition to his impressive speed and bold racing style, the 21-year-old Argentine has been praised for his humour and lively personality.

However, even Colapinto acknowledges that he may have pushed his luck a little too far when commenting on Williams' upcoming official merchandise.

"Get ready for The Franco Collection," the Grove-based team teased on its website just days ago.

Having rapidly won over his home fans with his remarkable debut, Colapinto was asked by Argentine outlet Corazon F1 about Williams' new merchandise line.

"Williams sets a price that not even Cristiano Ronaldo can afford," the 21-year-old joked.

"Then the Argentines go wild and clear out the stock. They buy everything, then they're stuck eating rice for two months," Colapinto laughed.

He went on to offer his Argentine F1 supporters some cheeky advice.

"Buy the fake stuff—the cheaper ones," said the Williams driver, before quickly realising he might have taken it too far.

"Actually, you should buy Williams gear—buy Williams stuff!" Colapinto added in haste. "They'll kill me for promoting fake gear."

He wrapped up by admitting he has yet to see the Colapinto-branded Williams merchandise and doesn't know when it will be available for sale.

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