"We want to see Franco Colapinto" - Argentinian president pushes for F1 return

Argentinian President Javier Milei is championing the return of Formula 1 to his country, following a long absence. Franco Colapinto, an Argentine driver, has been seen as a key factor in this push. However, Milei's plans for a return to Buenos Aires are currently premature, given the current economic challenges the nation faces.

The country last hosted F1 in 1998, at the Autodromo Oscar y Juan Galvez, which is currently under renovation. A new pit building and circuit remodel, costing $150 million, is 60% complete and aims to accommodate over 150,000 spectators once finished. The project, led by President Milei, emphasizes the country's potential to host F1 by highlighting its racing tradition and talented drivers, including Colapinto.

The FIA's president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, supported this initiative, visiting Buenos Aires to discuss the possibility with Milei. However, the FIA does not have direct influence over F1's calendar and prefers long-term business plans for potential venues. While a MotoGP return to Argentina in 2027 could serve as a test case, any potential F1 return remains a long-term proposition due to the country's economic struggles.