Briatore applies pressure on both Colapinto and Gasly.
Franco Colapinto isn't the only Alpine driver who might have left Austria feeling somewhat anxious. Executive advisor and unofficial team leader Flavio Briatore removed rookie Jack Doohan last month, bringing in the highly regarded Franco Colapinto, who has Argentine backing. However, the 21-year-old has also been struggling significantly in the car, prompting speculation that Briatore might make more changes soon.
When asked if he was worried amidst rumors linking Alpine with Valtteri Bottas, the Argentine driver responded, "Not particularly." He stated that he believes Briatore has been very supportive and has faith in his decision-making.
Nonetheless, 75-year-old Briatore has openly expressed his dissatisfaction not only with Colapinto's performance in Austria but also with the team's clear top driver, Pierre Gasly. Auto Motor und Sport reported Briatore criticizing the French driver's spin in Q3, which hindered Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri's attempts for pole position. The Italian remarked that such a mistake is "not what you expect from a top driver."
He also pointed out Colapinto's inability to reach Q3 at all, stating, "The car was quick and should have been comfortably in Q3 with both cars." Briatore noted that Alpine's pace seems to diminish during the races. "It's important to understand why this happens, especially if we want to improve this season's challenging situation," he mentioned. "Ultimately, we've fallen behind our direct competitors in the Championship after yet another race without scoring points, and this level of performance is becoming increasingly troubling."
Briatore commented that Colapinto was "a long way from Q3" on Saturday, adding that both drivers need to be in a more competitive position. Colapinto admitted, "I probably need to improve, but I lack confidence in high-speed corners."
In more positive news for Alpine, Briatore has managed to find a full-time replacement for Oliver Oakes, who left the team principal position unexpectedly. The likely new team chief is Steve Nielsen, who is well-acquainted with Briatore and Enstone, though he has recently held positions with the FIA and Formula 1. Nielsen is expected to be appointed "before the end of the summer, despite the unforeseen departure of Luca de Meo from Renault complicating the decision-making process."
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