Franco Colapinto said he will feel far more anxious about Argentina’s World Cup final than about his own race at the Belgian Grand Prix, following his country’s semi‑final win over England.
The Messi‑shirted Driver Speaks
Arriving at the Formula 1 paddock wearing a Lionel Messi football jersey, Colapinto was asked about the coming game. “We didn’t play England for a long time, and the win was an emotional victory for the team,” he told Motorsport.com. “Our pride in the nation, in Messi, and the display of Argentine spirit were unforgettable.” He compared the match to the iconic 1986 World Cup, emphasizing how moments of pressure can define a team’s character.
More Nervous About the Final Than the Race
When questioned about his mindset ahead of Argentina’s clash with Spain, Colapinto admitted, “I will be much more nervous about this match than about the Belgian Grand Prix.” “It’s a high‑profile show between two Latino nations, and the stakes are clear,” he added. The driver remains focused on his drive, entering the Belgian race as 13th in the drivers’ standings with 18 points.
Looking Ahead
Colapinto’s comments highlight a rare blend of competitive passion and national pride. While his confidence on the track is unshaken, his candid remark about the World Cup final’s emotional intensity underscores the distinct pressures of football on the world stage. The next week will see Colapinto brace for both the football showdown and the Belgian races, each demanding its own brand of concentration.
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