Franco Colapinto has provided insight into the challenging expectations set by Flavio Briatore within the Alpine F1 team. Colapinto, a main driver for Alpine in the current 2026 season, highlighted Briatore’s uncompromising approach to performance.
Briatore, who returned to Formula 1 as an Executive Advisor to Alpine in mid-2024, has significantly expanded his influence throughout 2026. His role focuses on driving aggressive development and maintaining high performance standards across the team.
According to Colapinto, achieving satisfaction from Briatore is particularly difficult, even following strong results. Briatore’s expectations are consistently high, and he is known for his direct communication style.
Colapinto believes this relentless approach is precisely what the Alpine F1 team requires to advance. He stated that such a demanding environment is necessary to challenge top teams like Ferrari, Red Bull, Mercedes, and McLaren.
The Argentine driver referenced the recent Canadian Grand Prix as an example of Briatore’s critical perspective. Alpine secured a double points finish, with Colapinto finishing sixth and teammate Jack Doohan eighth.
Despite these valuable points, Briatore expressed dissatisfaction after the race. He was reportedly the most critical individual within the team, focusing on the significant performance gap to Ferrari.
Ferrari had a strong showing in Canada, with Charles Leclerc winning the race and Carlos Sainz securing a third-place podium finish. Briatore questioned why Alpine lagged so far behind Ferrari compared to their performance in Miami.
‘No, no, I want more. I don’t think our position is good, and Racing Bulls are too close to us. They are closer than in Miami, so how can that be? I want answers and I want to improve further.’
This critical outlook is viewed by Colapinto as a fundamental characteristic of Briatore, rather than a deficiency. He maintains that this pressure, even when performance is good, is Briatore’s method of leadership.
Colapinto affirmed his belief in this strategy, stating, ‘I believe in his approach. You have to understand him. But I think to be successful in Formula 1 and achieve the goal that every midfield team pursues, catching Ferrari, Red Bull, Mercedes, and McLaren, you need someone like Flavio.’
Briatore’s return to Formula 1 is driven by a singular focus on winning, a competitive spirit that Colapinto greatly appreciates and shares. Alpine has undergone significant technical restructuring for the 2026 season under Team Principal Bruno Famin, with Briatore’s guidance.
Colapinto acknowledged the substantial progress made by Alpine this year. However, he stressed that the team remains highly competitive and is not content with merely leading the midfield.
