Franco Colapinto’s representatives have urged Formula 1 supporters to refrain from sending hateful messages to Esteban Ocon after the two drivers were involved in an on-track collision during the Chinese Grand Prix.

The incident occurred during the second half of the race at the Shanghai Circuit. Colapinto had just completed his only pit stop on lap 32, switching from hard tyres to the medium compound, when he rejoined the track alongside Ocon. The two drivers immediately resumed their battle from before the pit stops. As they approached Turn 2, Ocon attempted a move on the inside but made contact with Colapinto’s Alpine, sending both cars into a spin.

The stewards later ruled that Ocon was responsible for the incident. The French driver accepted the blame and received a 10-second time penalty, which he served during a later pit stop.

Despite the setback, Colapinto recovered to finish tenth and secure a single championship point, his first points finish since the 2024 United States Grand Prix.

Following the race, Colapinto’s management company, Bullet Sports Management, released a message on social media urging fans to behave respectfully and avoid targeting Ocon with abuse.

“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,” the statement said.

While Colapinto celebrated a points finish, Ocon’s race ended with a more disappointing result as he crossed the line in 14th place, one lap behind the leaders.