Alpine is considering making significant changes to its team due to the growing tensions within the organization. The recent collision between Flavio Briatore and Esteban Ocon at the Grand Prix only added to the existing problems. The French constructor is exploring options to replace Ocon next season and there are rumors that Briatore, the mastermind behind the infamous 2008 Crashgate scandal, may join the team. If true, Briatore will have a special role within the team.
Briatore’s track record is not particularly impressive. As former team principal of Renault, he was involved in the controversial Crashgate scandal during the 2008 Singapore GP. Consequently, he was expelled from the team in 2009. However, the 74-year-old Italian is set to make a comeback to the top of motorsport with Alpine.
If Briatore returns to Alpine, he will be responsible for assisting in the team’s recruitment efforts, especially in the search for a replacement for Ocon. Alpine representatives have chosen not to comment on these speculations, but have acknowledged that they are in frequent contact with the Italian. However, the team reiterated its decision to refrain from making any comments on the current situation.
Following the collision between Gasly and Ocon at the Grand Prix, tensions were high within the team. The team principal expressed his dissatisfaction and stated that serious consequences awaited the 27-year-old driver. These comments sparked rumors of a possible replacement for Ocon, including the possibility of Briatore taking his place. In addition to the team’s reaction, Ocon also received a five-grid penalty for the next race.
Le directeur de l’équipe, Famin, a préféré ne pas discuter de l’affaire en public et a souligné l’importance pour Alpine d’éviter des situations qui pourraient ternir la réputation de l’équipe à une plus grande échelle. Les prochaines courses seront cruciales pour Ocon, car elles pourraient déterminer son avenir au sein de l’équipe.
Pierre Gasly a montré une grande force en marquant les premiers points pour Alpine lors de la saison 2024. Le constructeur français lui offrira probablement une prolongation de contrat. Cependant, avec le marché des pilotes sur le point de s’ouvrir, Alpine pourrait trouver un remplaçant idéal pour Ocon. Seul le temps nous dira comment se déroulera la prochaine saison pour Alpine et Ocon.
