BWT Alpine F1 Team recently made an announcement that Flavio Briatore is returning to Formula 1 as an executive advisor for the struggling team. This news comes after Briatore previously led the team to multiple championships as team principal before resigning in 2009 due to his involvement in a race-fixing scandal.
Currently, Alpine is facing challenges in the World Constructors’ Championship, sitting in eighth place out of ten teams. The team has only managed to score four out of five points in the last two races, raising concerns about their performance. There have been rumors circulating about the team being up for sale, but Alpine has denied these claims. However, discussions are ongoing with other engine manufacturers to potentially become a customer for the 2026 season and close down their own power unit department.
Despite his controversial past, Alpine sees Briatore as a valuable asset with his wealth of experience in Formula 1. Team principal Bruno Famin expressed optimism about Briatore’s involvement, highlighting his knowledge of the sport and connections within the industry. Famin believes that Briatore can contribute to the team’s development and help them improve their performance on the track.
Briatore’s history in Formula 1 is marked by both success and controversy. In 2008, he was involved in a scandal during the Singapore Grand Prix where Renault driver Nelson Piquet Jr. crashed intentionally to benefit his teammate, Fernando Alonso. This incident led to Briatore being banned for life from F1 and FIA-sanctioned competitions, although the ban was later overturned by a French court.
Having started his career in fashion, Briatore made a successful transition to Formula 1 in 1990. He played a key role in the success of the Benetton team, including signing Michael Schumacher and winning two championships in the mid-1990s. Briatore later joined Renault and achieved further success with Fernando Alonso, winning back-to-back championships in 2005 and 2006.
Despite his controversial past, Briatore’s return to Formula 1 with Alpine signals a new chapter for the team as they strive to improve their performance and competitiveness in the sport. With his experience and determination to win, Briatore could provide valuable insights and guidance to help Alpine reach new heights in the world of Formula 1.