Pierre Gasly, the celebrated Formula 1 driver, has praised the profound influence of Flavio Briatore, the newly appointed Executive Advisor at the Alpine Formula 1 team. Briatore made a comeback to the team after Renault Group CEO, Luca de Meo, enlisted his services in June 2024 following a disappointing start to the season for Alpine.
Briatore, the charismatic Italian, is no stranger to the world of F1. He led the team, then known as Benetton, to championship glory in the mid-1990s and again in the mid-2000s under the Renault name, despite a certain notoriety for his involvement in the infamous ‘crashgate’ incident. Gasly was quick to laud Briatore’s wealth of experience, which is proving instrumental in rejuvenating the team and setting it on the path back to championship success.
Despite not working with him on a daily basis, Gasly has been deeply impressed by Briatore’s leadership capabilities. “He’s really brought a sense of direction to the team,” Gasly shared with select media outlets including Motorsport Week. “In Formula 1, strong leadership is a must. A leader needs to be able to effectively guide a team of 1,500, and that’s exactly what he’s doing.”
Gasly went on to emphasize the importance of leadership from all team members, not just from top management. He was also keen to highlight the extensive network and knowledge Briatore brings to the table, both technically and managerially, especially in terms of securing sponsorships.
“Flavio brings a wealth of experience to the sport. He understands the ins and outs of Formula 1 and has already guided Alpine, or Enstone as it was previously known, to the top,” Gasly said. “His passion, dedication, and drive to replicate past successes remain unchanged, and that’s something I’m particularly excited about.”
Another significant change in the Alpine leadership team in 2024 was the induction of Oliver Oakes as Team Principal in August. Oakes and Briatore were quick to shape the team’s trajectory, rallying it from the ninth position to a commendable sixth in the 2024 Constructors’ standings.
Gasly expressed optimism about the future of the team under the guidance of Briatore and Oakes. “The team’s outlook and spirit have taken a positive turn since Oli and Flav joined,” he said. “The various departments are being challenged to deliver their best, and that’s exactly what’s happening.”
Despite acknowledging that there’s still a significant journey ahead, Gasly was unequivocal about the team’s ambitions and potential. “Flavio is here to win, and so am I. Oli is here to elevate the team and secure victory,” he stated. “We might need some time, but I can unequivocally say that the team is moving in the right direction.”
Alpine’s clear vision and renewed leadership, backed by Gasly’s confidence, are sure to make the team one to watch in the upcoming seasons.
