Eddie Jordan, the outspoken former Formula 1 team owner, has thrown his support behind Flavio Briatore, insisting that the controversial figure has the ability to turn around Alpine’s fortunes in the coming years. Briatore, now serving as Alpine’s Executive Advisor, is no stranger to controversy, most notably with the infamous Crashgate scandal that tarnished his reputation. However, Jordan believes that Briatore is the right person to lead Alpine to success, claiming that the Italian has a “magic wand” capable of transforming the team’s prospects.
Jordan’s confidence stems from his long history with Briatore, dating back to when the Italian poached Michael Schumacher from Jordan’s team early in the German’s career. Despite some personal grievances, Jordan acknowledges Briatore’s talent for making things happen in Formula 1. According to Jordan, Briatore has personally assured him that Alpine will be back on the podium by 2026 or 2027.
“Some things I hated him for, and some things I loved him for,” Jordan admitted. “But you know what he will do, and he gave me his word: ‘I promise you, Eddie, by ’26 or ’27, Alpine will be on the podium.’”
Jordan emphasized his belief in Briatore’s capabilities, expressing confidence in the Italian’s ability to deliver on his promises. “I’m not going to stand up and say I disagree, because I actually do agree. He has a magic wand that is able to make things happen,” Jordan said.
Alpine, currently struggling at the back of the grid, faces an uphill battle in reclaiming its former glory. The team recently promoted a junior driver for the 2025 season after missing out on signing Carlos Sainz, signaling a focus on long-term development. Jordan noted that Briatore’s approach is to focus on building the best car possible first, rather than prioritizing star driver signings, contrasting it with Ferrari’s strategy of signing Lewis Hamilton.
“Flavio wants to build the best car possible. Then the best driver will naturally be attracted to that car – and that’s his way. That’s his philosophy. Other people go the other way around. Get the best driver, let’s see how we can make it work, like that’s Ferrari’s point – get Lewis Hamilton,” Jordan explained.
Despite Alpine’s current struggles and the looming loss of its works status in 2026, Briatore appears determined to bring the Enstone-based team back to the front of the grid. While the road ahead will be challenging, Jordan’s faith in Briatore’s leadership suggests that Alpine’s revival could indeed be on the horizon.
