Franco Colapinto Responds to Jeremy Clarkson's Remarks

Franco Colapinto has addressed the remarks made by Jeremy Clarkson during the Austin race weekend, characterizing the _Top Gear_ presenter's comments as typically 'jokey.' Clarkson, known for his controversial humor, made a quip about Colapinto's nationality while discussing the Alpine driver's grid penalty. "Franco’s got a grid penalty for being Argentine, probably. Well, I’d give him one for that," Clarkson said, referencing a past _Top Gear_ incident in Argentina. This isn't the first time Clarkson's comments have sparked backlash; a previous _Top Gear_ special in Patagonia saw the crew hurriedly exiting the country due to a misunderstood number plate reference to the Falklands War.

Colapinto, however, seems keen to steer clear of the controversy and concentrate on his driving. "I think he’s always been kind of jokey. I don’t really know him, but they told me," Colapinto remarked. Distancing himself from Clarkson’s comments, he emphasized that they were not related to the Alpine team. "I try to improve the situation, of course, but it kind of needs help from a lot of people, not just from me," he added, alluding to his ongoing efforts to address online negativity among fans.

Meanwhile, Colapinto's manager, Jamie Campbell-Walter, took a firmer stance, labeling Clarkson's comments as "completely unacceptable" on social media. Alpine also issued a statement, subtly addressing the situation without naming Clarkson directly. "We’re aware of the comments made in a recent TV interview from a guest of the team in Austin. We would like to reiterate that these are personal views and do not align with the team’s values of promoting kindness and respect. Franco is our driver and has our full support," the team declared.

Clarkson, often seen mingling in the F1 paddock as a guest of Alpine, finds himself in hot water again, though this time it seems the focus will remain on Colapinto's racing ambitions rather than off-track distractions.