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Franco Colapinto’s management team has publicly defended the Alpine driver following the dramatic crash involving Oliver Bearman at the Japanese Grand Prix — an incident that has triggered a wave of criticism on social media.
Colapinto was the other car directly involved in the sequence that led to Bearman’s heavy impact. As the Alpine approached Spoon Curve, it entered harvesting mode, while Bearman was deploying energy behind him. The contrasting energy states created a closing speed of just under 30mph, leaving the Briton with little time to react.
Bearman was ultimately forced to take avoiding action to prevent colliding with the rear of Colapinto’s car. In doing so, he crashed broadside into the wall, registering a substantial 50G impact.
Fortunately, Bearman escaped serious injury, sustaining only a contusion to his right knee.
Despite being described as an innocent party in the sequence of events, Colapinto has faced criticism online in the aftermath of the crash. His management team, BulletSportsManagement, responded directly on social media platform X, pushing back against what they labelled unfair treatment.
“A race to forget. Franco was unlucky with the timing of the Safety Car, which ruined his chances of fighting for points,” the statement read.
The post also addressed the crash explicitly:
“We also can’t ignore the incident that led to Ollie Bearman’s crash, one in which Franco was not at fault.”
According to the statement, the incident was “a consequence of the new energy management rules, as confirmed by the FIA’s official statement.”
The management group went further, highlighting what they described as excessive backlash directed at their driver.
“Despite this, Franco is receiving unjustified criticism and hate, so let’s show him all the love and support he deserves.”
In a follow-up message, BulletSportsManagement revealed that Colapinto had been subjected to “name-calling,” urging fans to shift their focus toward positive support.
“Guys, don’t worry. Franco is in great hands and has all the support he needs,” the statement began.
“He’s stronger than you think, and negative comments or name-calling won’t affect him.”
The message concluded with reassurance that the Alpine driver is surrounded by the right people.
“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.”
The episode has underscored both the fine margins created by energy management dynamics and the intensity of online reaction that can follow high-profile incidents — even when fault is officially ruled out.
Il est ingénieur logiciel et passionné de Formule 1 et de sport automobile. Il a cofondé Formula Live Pulse afin de rendre les données télémétriques en direct et les informations sur les courses accessibles, visuelles et faciles à suivre.