Flavio Briatore Raises the Stakes: Franco Colapinto’s Make or Break Race!
In a bold statement, Alpine’s chief, Flavio Briatore, has labeled the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix as the pivotal moment for Franco Colapinto, following his replacement of Jack Doohan in the team. Despite lackluster results thus far, Briatore urges patience, emphasizing that Colapinto’s performance will be the ultimate decider of his future with the team. Dismissing earlier claims of a five-race trial period, Briatore remains cryptic about Colapinto’s prospects for the full season.
“We need to give Franco a second chance,” Briatore asserted. “We are observing. We are watching this race. We need the entire race. We had Monte Carlo. It was a very special race for everyone. We made many mistakes in qualifying. And in Monte Carlo, as you know, a good qualification is the race. Especially this race. Monte Carlo was very boring and very annoying. Let’s see. This is Franco’s first real race. How many races, I don’t know, honestly. I never say five races, three races, four races, one race. Let’s see. If Colapinto delivers good performances, he will drive the car. If not, we’ll see.”
“2025 is a year where we need to prepare for 2026. So, whatever experience I need to gain, we are gaining it. At this moment, I don’t know if Franco will stay for the season or not, but we will see. It depends on performance. We are only looking at performance – nothing else.”
Furthermore, Briatore remained tight-lipped about the potential replacement for Oliver Oakes as the Alpine team principal, simply stating that they are seeking someone capable and committed. He deflected inquiries about the potential entry of Mick Schumacher into Alpine, refusing to confirm or deny any plans.
As the tension mounts and the stakes soar, all eyes will be on Franco Colapinto as he gears up for what could be a career-defining race at the Spanish Grand Prix. Will he seize the moment and secure his spot in the Alpine team, or will the pressure prove too much to handle? The motorsport world eagerly awaits the answer.