Briatore Questions Alpine's Stumble Against F1 Leaders, Prioritizes Team Building

Flavio Briatore, an executive advisor for the Alpine Formula 1 team, voiced his bewilderment at the team's struggle to consistently compete with the leading constructors. "I don't know why we don't win. I don't know why we don't beat McLaren. I don't know why we don't beat Ferrari!" he stated in an interview with The Race, emphasizing that the team has the capability to achieve more. Briatore suggested that while some competitors might have superior facilities, the core issue lies in belief and collective effort. He pointed to Aston Martin as an example of a team with top-tier resources that still faces competitive challenges, underscoring that a winning mindset is paramount.

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I don't know why we don't win. I don't know why we don't beat McLaren. I don't know why we don't beat Ferrari!

Briatore highlighted a shift in culture within Alpine, noting that the team now possesses a clearer understanding of its technical personnel and their contributions. "Now we have stability. And there are people who are calling us to join the team and help us," he said, contrasting it with a past where identifying strong performers was difficult due to frequent changes. He believes this stability is crucial for the team's evolution and its ability to attract talent. The executive also mentioned that many individuals who previously left the team are now seeking to return.

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Now we have stability. And there are people who are calling us to join the team and help us.

Looking ahead, Briatore reiterated his commitment to improving Alpine's standing, recalling a promise to Renault to reach the top six this season, with aspirations of a top-five finish. He stressed that the immediate focus is on strengthening the team's foundation rather than prioritizing the acquisition of a star driver. "At this moment, the driver is not our priority. We need to integrate the driver into the team at the moment when we believe he can make a difference. At this moment, we need to build the team," he explained. Briatore is confident that with stability and a unified effort, Alpine can achieve its performance goals.

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At this moment, the driver is not our priority. We need to integrate the driver into the team at the moment when we believe he can make a difference. At this moment, we need to build the team.