Briatore Disputes Alpine's Colapinto Plan

Flavio Briatore Disputes Alpine's Five-Race Plan for Colapinto

Why it matters: Flavio Briatore, now in charge of Alpine, has refuted the team's earlier announcement about Franco Colapinto's temporary role, creating uncertainty about the driver lineup.

The big picture:

• Alpine initially stated Colapinto would replace Jack Doohan for five races, starting from the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
• Briatore now indicates Colapinto's race participation doesn't have a set limit.

What they are saying:

• Briatore contradicted the initial plan in an interview with Sky Italy.

  "I have to say, I also expected more from Jack Doohan – maybe he needs a break. Franco will race as much as needed. I read somewhere that he’ll have five races, but no, there’s no set limit on his races. He needs to be fast, not crash, and score points. I’m only asking him these three things — not 10. If he does them well, he’ll drive forever."

• Briatore also addressed the departure of former team principal Oliver Oakes, attributing it to a personal issue.

What's next: Alpine's driver strategy is now uncertain, and Colapinto's future with the team depends on his performance. Briatore is currently assessing the team's situation, leveraging his past experience to guide Alpine.