F1 executives concur that the struggling Colapinto requires 'time.'

      Flavio Briatore acknowledges that Alpine's new signing, Franco Colapinto, requires "time" to acclimate to Formula 1. Despite the rookie Colapinto recently replacing Jack Doohan and having only six races in the car, team advisor Briatore has already dismissed the official five-race assurance for the 21-year-old Argentine. Colapinto's performances in Imola, Monaco, and Barcelona have not met expectations. Is he anxious that after five races, he may need to return the seat to Doohan? "I can’t comment on that," he told Diario Sport in Barcelona. "It's not for me to decide - that question should be directed to others."

      Colapinto joined Alpine after being loaned for a reported $20 million by Williams' team principal James Vowles. Given the young driver’s challenges with Alpine, Vowles remarked on Friday: "Whether it's Franco or others, they need time. Adjusting to a Formula 1 car takes time." Colapinto finished last in both practice sessions at the Circuit de Catalunya. "I struggled to find my rhythm," he explained. "The car felt very disconnected."

      Briatore is known for both supporting and promoting prominent drivers like Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso, as well as for his readiness to make tough decisions. "I don’t specify five races, three races, four races, or one race," stated the 75-year-old Italian in Barcelona. "If Colapinto performs, he'll stay in the car. If not, we'll evaluate the situation."

      Is Colapinto's position already in jeopardy? "Absolutely not," Briatore told Sky Italia. "We must allow Franco time. We recognize this is a transition year, but we need to improve with both drivers."