Flavio Briatore Steps Up as Team Principal at Alpine

In a significant shakeup at the Alpine Formula 1 team, Flavio Briatore has taken on the role of team principal following the resignation of Oliver Oakes. While Briatore does not officially hold this title, his influence has been undeniably strong behind the scenes, and he is now the public face of the French-owned team once again. This new role includes participating in official FIA press conferences, where he recently made a memorable impression that reflects his vibrant personality.

Briatore’s Return to the Spotlight

The atmosphere during the press conference was anything but mundane, a stark contrast to the typical formalities associated with such events. Briatore, known for his charismatic and sometimes unpredictable demeanor, was introduced by F1 TV presenter Tom Clarkson alongside Christian Horner, the principal of Red Bull Racing, and Mario Isola, Pirelli’s motorsport manager. From the outset, Briatore’s presence was felt as he injected humor into the proceedings, setting a tone that contrasted sharply with the usual staid nature of press conferences.

When asked by Clarkson how his initial year back at Alpine had unfolded, Briatore humorously remarked, “You say 12 months, but it’s only been 10. My payslip shows only 10 months!” This playful banter immediately engaged the audience, showcasing Briatore’s knack for lightening the mood.

The Search for a Successor

As the conversation shifted to the departure of Oakes and the qualities Briatore seeks in a new successor, a light-hearted exchange ensued. Horner interjected with a cheeky suggestion: “Cheap?” to which Briatore laughed and responded, “Cheap – someone cheap!” However, he quickly pivoted to a more serious tone, emphasizing the need for a candidate who understands the dynamics of the team. “We’re looking for someone who’s good and knows how things work, someone who’s part of the team. I know several people would like to be part of this new journey with Alpine, and we’ll make a decision soon,” he stated.

Briatore’s responses reflect a blend of his characteristic humor and the serious undertones of his responsibilities. For those familiar with his often enigmatic style, his remarks resonated deeply, while newcomers to the world of F1 might have found themselves amused and slightly bewildered by his unique approach.

Engaging with the Audience

As the press conference progressed, the atmosphere remained lively. The audience was eager to engage with Briatore, and the first question directed at him sought to uncover whether Mick Schumacher might drive for Alpine in the upcoming seasons. Briatore, however, was not inclined to entertain this line of questioning. “I don’t understand why we’re talking about Schumacher now,” he replied, expressing his confusion about the relevance of the question. His reticence to address this inquiry prompted laughter in the room, highlighting his distinct approach to media interactions.

When pressed again about Schumacher’s potential inclusion on a shortlist, Briatore dismissed the topic altogether: “I don’t want to talk about it.” This firm refusal to engage left the audience amused, while Horner cleverly seized the moment to make a joke about Briatore’s evasive responses.

A Refreshing Presence

Horner took the opportunity to express his delight at Briatore’s return to the F1 scene. “I honestly have no idea what you’re talking about! But I just want to say how refreshing it is to have Flavio back. These press conferences were terribly boring before you came back.” Briatore, never one to miss a beat, quipped, “Nothing’s changed in 20 years… maybe a little bit – more people with white hair…”

The playful banter continued, illustrating the camaraderie shared among the team principals. This light-hearted atmosphere stood in stark contrast to the high-stakes world of F1, where tensions can often run high.

The Business of Driver Changes

While humor was a recurring theme, the press conference also underscored Briatore’s reputation for being shrewd and sometimes ruthless, especially regarding driver decisions. Jack Doohan had recently been replaced by Franco Colapinto ahead of the Imola race, which raised questions about how long Colapinto would remain in the driver’s seat. Alpine’s press release indicated a commitment to five races, but Briatore was quick to clarify that such numbers were not set in stone.

When asked about Colapinto’s future, Briatore remained ambiguous yet firm. “We still need to wait to evaluate Franco Colapinto and first see how this race goes,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of performance in determining a driver’s future. His comments revealed his commitment to a no-nonsense approach in evaluating talent, stating, “If Colapinto performs well, he’ll be in the car. If not, we’ll see.”

Preparing for the Future

Briatore’s remarks about the upcoming 2025 season were particularly noteworthy. He articulated that this year would serve as a period of preparation for 2026, when significant changes are anticipated in the sport. His reference to “experiments” hinted at the possibility of further driver changes and strategic shifts as Alpine gears up for the future. “It depends purely on performance, and nothing else,” he reiterated, underlining his focus on results over sentimentality.

This statement aligns with Briatore’s well-known reputation for being tough in the competitive landscape of F1, where decisions are often made based on performance metrics rather than emotional attachments. His track record speaks volumes about his ability to make bold moves that can shift the trajectory of a team’s fortunes.

The Legacy of Flavio Briatore

Briatore’s presence in the paddock is reminiscent of his past influence in F1, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous drivers and teams. His long-standing relationship with former F1 mogul Bernie Ecclestone is well-documented, with both figures known for their shrewd business acumen and ability to navigate the complexities of the motorsport world.

Just as Ecclestone was known for his cunning in the car dealership world, Briatore shares a similar legacy in F1. His ability to maneuver through the intricacies of the sport, coupled with a flair for the dramatic, has solidified his status as a prominent figure in the paddock. The combination of his charisma and strategic mind makes him a compelling character within the highly competitive realm of F1.

The Future of Alpine

As Alpine navigates its current challenges and prepares for the future, Briatore’s influence will undoubtedly shape the team’s direction. His commitment to performance and willingness to adapt will be crucial as they strive for success in a sport that demands excellence at every turn. With the 2026 season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Alpine as they implement their strategies and pursue their goals.

Flavio Briatore’s return to the public eye is not just a momentary spectacle; it signifies a pivotal chapter in Alpine’s journey as they seek to redefine their position in the competitive landscape of Formula 1. As they prepare for a future filled with potential and challenges, Briatore’s leadership will play an integral role in guiding the team towards its aspirations.

In conclusion, the press conference showcased Briatore’s blend of humor and seriousness, reflecting both his personality and his approach to the complexities of F1. As Alpine gears up for the future, one thing is clear: with Briatore at the helm, the journey promises to be anything but boring.