Briatore suggests a future for Alpine involving Gasly and Colapinto.

      "I strive to perform at my best every single time."

      Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto are looking increasingly likely to continue as Alpine’s race drivers in 2027. Despite rumors linking Fernando Alonso to a remarkable return to the Enstone team, executive adviser Flavio Briatore hinted before the Austrian GP that he plans to maintain the current lineup. Briatore called Gasly one of the top six drivers on the Formula 1 grid and mentioned that a final decision will be made around the summer break.

      Gasly, who recently received his trophy for finishing third at the Monaco GP from Isack Hadjar after successfully appealing the pitlane speeding incident, appreciated Briatore’s support. "I think I am," Gasly grinned when asked about Briatore’s opinion. "It’s nice to hear it from Flavio, but I’ve been here long enough to understand that I need to concentrate on my own performance. I strive to do my absolute best every time I'm in the car, and sometimes my best last year resulted in a 15th place finish. That doesn’t imply that I’m a poor driver."

      He further remarked, "It’s flattering coming from Flavio, and we’re collaborating well together, so I'm pleased with our team dynamic and aim for us to perform even better." Colapinto, whose time at Alpine has included both support and critique from Briatore, indicated that their relationship remains strong as well.

      "I heard a bit of what he said," the Argentine driver commented at the Red Bull Ring. "They were very positive remarks, and it was an enjoyable interview. Flavio is very supportive but has also been tough on me at times, which was necessary. It also depends on how I respond to those moments, and thankfully, I managed them well, improved, and learned from them. Those experiences were incredibly beneficial."

      He added, "We all recognize that Flavio has been in this sport for a long time and has achieved great success. When you leverage all his experience and feedback, it helps you grow, understand where to focus, and strengthens your mindset. Over time, it becomes an asset." Regarding when he will have clarity about 2027, Colapinto replied, "We haven’t discussed the 2027 situation yet, as we’re concentrating entirely on each race one at a time."