The gravedigger’s holidays

Flavio Briatore (74), F1’s emblematic but controversial figure, here-above in charming company, to whom he certainly is explaining his strategy for the future of Alpine in Formula One, is well-known for the titles obtained with Benetton and Renault, for his very “personal” management style, but also for his implication in the scandal called Crashgate in 2008.

Indeed, during the Singapore Grand Prix, it was revealed that Briatore had orchestrated a voluntary crash by Nelson Piquet Jr, in order to obtain victory for the other Renault driver, Fernando Alonso. This immense scandal not only tarnished Renault’s reputation, but also lead to the banning of Briatore and some key team members.

Recently back at the helm of the team with full authority, thanks to Renault CEO Luca de Meo (picture-below) holding him in high esteem, Briatore immediately takes harsh decisions. Bruno Famin, the (temporary) team principal, is moved aside and the Renault engine is replaced by the Mercedes from 2026 on, leaving 350 highly-qualified Viry-Châtillon workers looking for another job…

Jack Doohan, the promising Australian test driver, managed by … Flavio Briatore, is now pretty certain of being promoted to a full-time drive alongside Pierre Gasly in 2025. Clearly the brilliant and sulphurous Flavio Briatore is well-decided to do everything he can to bring Alpine F1 back to the top… and then sell the team?