Bradley Scanes, who served as Max Verstappen‘s physio from 2020 to 2023 during the Dutch driver’s three world championship victories, has taken a new role working alongside 21-year-old Franco Colapinto as the Argentine prepares for a full-time return to Formula 1 this weekend. This development was noticed ahead of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, where Scanes appeared in Alpine team gear alongside Colapinto, signaling a fresh collaboration in the competitive F1 environment.
Scanes and Verstappen parted ways at the end of the 2023 season, with the physiotherapist expressing on Instagram how much he would miss working with the Red Bull star. Their relationship extended beyond professional ties; Scanes described his time with Verstappen as feeling like being part of a family, often attending personal events and sharing moments with Verstappen’s close circle.
“I think that was probably the hardest thing about leaving, having that initial conversation with them was like a break-up,”
Scanes told Sky Sports F1, highlighting the emotional weight of their separation.
Franco Colapinto, who impressed during the early part of 2024 while driving a Williams F1 car, was displaced by the arrival of Carlos Sainz and subsequently joined Alpine as a reserve driver for the 2025 season. However, the young Argentine’s prospects changed dramatically when Alpine confirmed he would replace Jack Doohan from the Imola Grand Prix onwards, following Doohan’s dismissal after only six races. The presence of Scanes alongside Colapinto suggests a strategic move by Alpine to support their emerging talent with experienced personnel, enhancing the team’s competitiveness.
Although Scanes has not been officially announced as Colapinto’s physio or trainer, his public appearances in Alpine kit strongly imply his involvement in a physical and wellness capacity. Given Scanes’ track record of working closely with one of Formula 1’s leading champions, his expertise is expected to provide crucial support for Colapinto as he embarks on this critical phase of his career.
This partnership carries significant implications for Colapinto’s development and performance, potentially accelerating his adaptation to the rigors of full-time F1 competition. Meanwhile, Scanes’ move signals a continued influence within Formula 1, leveraging his experience from his time with Verstappen to help cultivate new talent. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how this alliance impacts Colapinto’s results and standing within the sport.
