Flavio Briatore, the mastermind behind Formula 1’s most controversial moments, is back in the limelight with a bold statement: Alpine is gunning to be title contenders by 2027.
The 75-year-old Italian, known for his no-nonsense approach, has taken on a more prominent role at Alpine following the departure of team principal Oliver Oakes. Briatore, now an executive advisor to the team, is leaving no room for excuses as he sets his sights on victories in 2026 and a championship challenge the following year.
Alpine has had a rocky start to the 2025 season, scoring only seven points and making the tough decision to replace Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto after the Miami Grand Prix. But Briatore is adamant that the team will turn things around, especially with the new regulations set to shake up the sport in 2026.
“We are in this sport to win, and win we shall. In 2026, we can win races, mark my words. And by 2027, we aim to be in the title fight,” Briatore declared in an exclusive interview with Le Monde.
One of the key factors in Briatore’s ambitious plan is Alpine’s switch to Mercedes power units for the upcoming season. With Renault exiting F1 at the end of 2025, Briatore believes aligning with Mercedes is crucial for Alpine’s competitiveness.
“The easiest way to win is to sign Max Verstappen, but we can’t. So we have to work with what we’ve got,” Briatore emphasized. “To win in this sport, you need to have the same tools as the others. That’s why the decision to switch to Mercedes power was a no-brainer.”
Having tasted success in the past with Enstone-based teams, Briatore is no stranger to championship glory. Despite his tumultuous history in F1, including a lifetime ban that was later overturned, Briatore is focused on leading Alpine to the pinnacle of the sport once again.
With a strong team by his side and unwavering determination, Briatore is ready to take Alpine to new heights. The road to the championship won’t be easy, but with Briatore at the helm, Alpine is gearing up for a fierce battle on the track.
