Flavio Briatore stands as a complex figure in the Formula 1 realm; a man whose past is as controversial as his ambitions. Now serving as an executive advisor to Alpine, his fervor for victory remains undimmed, even as the team struggles in the current season. With just seven points accrued in 2025 and a notable driver change following the Miami Grand Prix, Briatore has made it clear: Alpine must not only aim for improvement but also seek to dominate. His insistence that there are “no excuses” in the upcoming 2026 season paints a picture of unwavering accountability—the hallmark of a true competitor.
Briatore’s record in Formula 1 is laden with both triumph and controversy. Yet his past transgressions, notably the ban that followed the infamous ‘Crashgate’ scandal, have not stifled his ambition. The lifting of his ban in French courts seems to only add fuel to his fire, as he steps into a de facto leadership role within the team. He claims that the forthcoming regulatory changes represent not just hurdles but also opportunities—an assertion that sends a resonant call to arms for the Alpine team.
A Change of Power: Embracing New Engines
One of the most strategic shifts for Alpine is its switch to Mercedes power units beginning in 2026. Briatore has openly recognized that the team’s previous challenges stemmed from a power disadvantage, a setback that cannot be ignored when competing on the world stage. While this decision undoubtedly carries risks, it also reflects a calculated approach to elevate team performance. Transitioning to Mercedes signifies an attempt to leverage the formidable engineering prowess synonymous with the German brand, a pragmatic move by a man who understands the weight of machinery in this sport.
Briatore’s candid remark that securing Max Verstappen as a driver would be the “easiest way to win” underscores a crucial reality: Alpine’s journey to the top necessitates working with existing resources. It brings to the forefront that while talent and driving skill are essential, holistic team synergy—especially in engineering and strategy—can significantly influence outcomes. This is where Briatore’s resolute vision is expected to galvanize efforts for the upcoming regulations.
Leadership Amidst Transition
The recent departure of Oliver Oakes as team principal has left a void, one that Briatore is stepping into with determination. Having been involved with Alpine before, his effectiveness hinges not merely on experience but on forging alliances within the organization. His sweeping dedication to overseeing technical, commercial, and management domains signals a commitment that ambitions must be matched with action.
What stands out is Briatore’s unique awareness of the challenges that come with such increased responsibility. He knows that merely taking charge isn’t sufficient; building a united front amongst various departments becomes imperative for success in the cutthroat world of F1. His statement about needing to address internal issues promptly highlights a proactive mentality, an essential trait for any leader who aspires to guide a team toward success. Unlike many pupils of traditional management, Briatore’s approach is steeped in direct engagement, favoring transparency and communication over obfuscation and delay.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As Briatore navigates these complex waters, the history of his achievements looms large. With three constructors’ championships to his name, he carries a legacy entwined with names like Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso. Yet the path forward is not merely a matter of rekindling past glories. Instead, it’s about crafting a future where Alpine can reclaim its position among elite competitors. His conviction that 2026 is a pivotal moment conveys an urgency; it reflects an understanding of formula racing that transcends mechanics and strategy—it is as much about mindset.
There’s an underlying belief that clarity of purpose will empower Alpine to not only reclaim a competitive edge but also foster a culture of winning within its ranks. Briatore’s imminent focus on team cohesion, technological prowess, and competitive spirit highlights a multifaceted approach to regaining glory. Whether he can effectively implement his ambitious strategies remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—his vision for Alpine is as unrelenting as the sport itself.