Formula One driver Franco Colapinto’s management team has urged fans to cease sending death threats to rival Esteban Ocon following a dramatic on-track collision at the Chinese Grand Prix.
The Turn 2 Incident
On lap 32, Haas driver Esteban Ocon, aged 29, attempted an overtake on Colapinto at turn 2 to secure the final points position in 10th place. Ocon misjudged the move, making contact that sent both drivers spinning. Colapinto, fresh from the pits, recovered to claim 10th and his first point of the season. Ocon received a 10-second time penalty from the FIA and finished 14th.
Apologies Issued
Ocon immediately apologized after the race, stating: “First of all very sorry to Franco, I take full responsibility for that one and I’m happy that he managed to score points as he drove a great race. Many things to review after today. We had a great start to the race, but we were unlucky with the timing of the safety car which compromised our strategy. We’ll keep pushing and I know the results will come our way.”
He also extended apologies in the mixed zone. Colapinto responded positively on Instagram: “All good mate. Thanks for the apology, see you soon.”
Management’s Strong Warning
Bullet Sports Management, representing Colapinto, released a statement addressing abusive messages directed at Ocon, his family, and the Haas team: “Public Service Announcement: Please do not send hate or death threats to Esteban, his family, or the Haas F1 team. It won’t undo the crash and only reflects poorly on Franco’s fandom. Thank you for keeping the support positive and respectful!”
Pattern of Fan Behavior
Colapinto, 22, has previously called for respect from supporters. After a clash with Yuki Tsunoda at last season’s Imola Grand Prix, he told reporters: “I know they are extremely passionate, and they are always very harsh on people. They have to give respect, and that’s what we all want. There is a lot of hate on social media … So of course we always try and want, for all the drivers, to keep it respectful and keep it calm there.”
Earlier, as Alpine’s reserve driver at the start of the 2025 season, Colapinto’s fans faced accusations of harassing Jack Doohan, who secured the seat instead. F1 photographer Kym Illman reported that Doohan endured severe online threats, prompting him to deactivate his social media accounts. Formula One maintains a zero-tolerance policy on abuse, and Alpine firmly opposes all social media harassment.
Race Results
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli secured his first F1 victory, with teammate George Russell in second. Lewis Hamilton earned his initial podium for Ferrari in third place.
