Formula One driver Franco Colapinto’s management team has urged supporters to refrain from sending death threats to rival Esteban Ocon following a dramatic on-track collision at the Chinese Grand Prix.
The On-Track Incident
During 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. The move resulted in contact, sending both drivers spinning. Colapinto, fresh from the pit lane, recovered to claim 10th and earn his first point of the season. Ocon received a 10-second time penalty from race officials and finished 14th.
Apologies Issued
Ocon took immediate responsibility post-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.”
In the mixed zone, Ocon personally apologized to Colapinto, who 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 on his passionate fans to show respect toward fellow drivers. After a collision 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 in the 2025 season, while serving as Alpine’s reserve driver, Colapinto’s supporters faced accusations of targeting Jack Doohan with intense online abuse after the Australian secured a seat over him. Photographer Kym Illman noted Doohan received numerous threats, prompting the 23-year-old to deactivate his social media accounts. Formula One enforces a zero-tolerance policy on abuse, and Alpine firmly opposes all forms of online harassment.
Race Highlights
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli secured his first F1 victory, with teammate George Russell in second. Lewis Hamilton achieved his inaugural podium for Ferrari in third place.
