In a surprising twist, Bernie Ecclestone has shared details of his pivotal chat with Renault CEO Luca de Meo that set Flavio Briatore back on his path to influence within the Alpine F1 team.
Alpine’s less-than-stellar start to the 2024 Formula 1 season, managing a meager nine points so far, signaled the need for a shake-up within the team. Amidst these struggles, dramatic changes were implemented in the team’s senior staff. However, the most eye-catching move was bringing back Flavio Briatore, the former Renault team boss now serving as an executive advisor.
Briatore’s exit from Formula 1 was marked by the infamous 2008 Singapore ‘Crashgate’ scandal. Despite this scandalous past, he has made a comeback to help Alpine climb back up the grid. The decision to bring Briatore on board wasn’t made in isolation but came after a long phone conversation between Ecclestone and de Meo.
“Luca was in a bind,” Ecclestone disclosed, recalling his conversation with the Renault CEO. “After a long chat, Briatore’s name came up, and we quickly agreed that in the chaotic world of the Grand Prix, only a go-getter could make a difference. There are too many saints in this circus!” According to Ecclestone, Briatore’s real advantage lies in his preference for action over words. “Flavio’s great strength has always been: ‘Keep the discussions short, do and think big!’ He never wastes time on unnecessary camaraderie in Formula 1 — success is the only friend you need,” stated Ecclestone, emphasizing Briatore’s focus on achievement.
Since Briatore’s return, there have been notable improvements, with both Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon reaching Q3 in Spain, and Ocon maintaining this performance in Austria. However, Gasly was hit by a gearbox issue at the British GP, breaking his points streak.
Briatore is not only focused on immediate improvement but has his eyes set on the 2026 season, eager to see Alpine reclaim their place at the top. “In 2026 I will win races, Alpine will be on the podium then, how many we will be able to do I don’t know,” he expressed on RAI Radio, highlighting the team’s ongoing reformation as a stepping stone to future victories.
Only time will tell if Ecclestone’s faith in Briatore will bear fruit for the Alpine F1 team. It is clear, though, that his return has already begun to influence positive change, setting the stage for potentially more significant accomplishments in the future.
