Franco Colapinto takes social media break, urges fans to stop online abuse
Alpine Formula 1 driver Franco Colapinto has announced a break from social media, urging supporters to stop attacking other drivers and members of his team, warning that their behaviour could damage his career.
The 23-year-old Argentine published a video on Instagram on 14 October, thanking fans for their continued support while addressing the hostility directed at his colleagues, mechanics and engineers.
«Sometimes we cross the line. Instead of supporting me, we end up criticising and attacking other drivers, colleagues, teammates, mechanics and engineers, people I work with every day,» Colapinto said.
«I know you think you’re defending me, but you’re achieving the opposite. You’re not helping me or my future.»
The driver acknowledged that his supporters have played an important role throughout his career, motivating him and his team during difficult periods and celebrating his achievements.
However, he stressed that personal attacks against those around him undermine the very results his fans want him to achieve.
«To help me perform better, to help me continue achieving my dreams and scoring points, I need you to help me stop this, all together,» he said.
Colapinto steps away from social media to focus on F1
The statement comes amid continued online criticism of Alpine and other Formula 1 drivers from sections of Colapinto’s fanbase.
The Argentine has previously been at the centre of tensions involving online abuse directed at his teammate Pierre Gasly and other figures in the paddock. Alpine and team adviser Flavio Briatore have also called for an end to personal attacks against their drivers and staff.
Colapinto said he had already decided to reduce his social media activity to concentrate on racing and working with Alpine towards better results.
«Some time ago, I made the decision to step away from social media, to take a break and focus on what really matters to me: my dream, my racing career and working with the team to achieve the results we want.»
Despite distancing himself from online platforms, he assured supporters that he would continue meeting them at races and encouraged them to back Alpine through both successful and difficult periods.
«I want you to keep supporting the team and supporting me. I’m sure we’re going to achieve great results together,» he said.
He concluded by expressing hope that better performances and championship points would follow, adding that he looked forward to seeing supporters again at races closer to home.
The video, captioned simply «Juntos» («Together»), was published during a week-long break in the Formula 1 calendar. Colapinto did not specify when he intends to return to regular social media activity.
