Flavio Briatore has pushed back on Alpine’s plan to give Franco Colapinto five Formula 1 races, hinting at a different approach to his development.
The Italian has taken over the leadership role at the French squad following Oliver Oakes’ dismissal as Team Principal.
Briatore doesn’t hold any specific position or job title, with Racing Director Dave Greenwood assigned as team representative for administrative purposes.
Alpine announced before the race weekend in Imola that the young Argentine would be replacing Jack Doohan, with a chance to hold down his seat over the next five races.
The reserve driver would replace the Australian rookie after he failed to score any points in the opening six rounds.
A statement from Alpine read: “Having reviewed the opening races of the season, we have come to the decision to put Franco in the car alongside Pierre for the next five races. […] The next five races will give us an opportunity to try something different and after this time period we will assess our options.”
However, speaking with Sky Italy at Imola, the 75-year-old has contradicted himself and the team.
“I have to say, I also expected more from Jack Doohan – maybe he needs a break,” Briatore said.
“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.”
Asked to explain the departure of Oakes, he replied: “His resignation came after Miami due to a personal issue, and when it happened, I didn’t expect it either.
“This is a united team – there were rumours that I had argued with Oliver, but that’s not true — we have a great relationship.”
READ MORE – Franco Colapinto admits five races ‘not enough’ to maximise potential at Alpine
