Briatore: If Colapinto performs, he drives. If not, we’ll see

Colapinto, who made his FP1 debut with Alpine in Imola before returning in Monaco, has so far had limited running. But Briatore said Barcelona marks the first serious opportunity to assess the Argentine prospect in a representative session.

“Monaco was a special case for everyone. We made mistakes in qualifying, and in Monaco, qualifying is the race. It was boring and frustrating,” Briatore said during the Friday press conference in Spain.

Adding what the expectations are for Colapinto: “So now, this is Franco’s first proper test. As for how many races he’ll do, honestly, I don’t know. I never commit to saying five, three, or one race. If he performs, he drives. If not, we’ll see. 2025 is about preparing for 2026, so whatever experiments I need to run, I’ll do.

"Right now, nothing is decided — it’s all about performance," insisted Briatore, whi is nearly a year into the position as Alpine consultant.

Asked whether Pierre Gasly has what it takes to become a world champion with Alpine, Briatore was cautious but optimistic about the team’s long-term potential.

“I don’t know. Look at McLaren — two or three years ago, they were near the bottom. Same with Renault before they won a title. Benetton was at the back in ’91, ’92, and ’93. But by ’94 and ’95, we were title contenders,” said Briatore.

“This business changes fast. Red Bull were dominant, now it’s McLaren. Everyone is working hard — 10 teams trying to be the best. If I didn’t believe we could compete in 2027, I’d rather stay on the beach drinking Coca-Cola than sweat here in Barcelona.”

Pressed on whether Gasly had stepped up into the leadership role, Briatore insisted that without a competitive car, the jury remains out: “It’s a chicken-and-egg situation. Without a competitive car, it’s hard to judge a driver’s true level. Let’s give him that car, and then we’ll see.”

As for speculation linking Mick Schumacher to Alpine’s F1 seat in 2025 or 2026, Briatore dismissed it as premature: “I’m not sure why we’re discussing Schumacher now. We’re in 2025. I don’t understand the question. Yeah, sure, everyone says that. But I don’t think this is the right place to talk about it. Next question.”

The French team still have Jack Doohan on their books and Paul Aron, who is due a break based on the views of several F1 paddock insiders.

Briatore also addressed the ongoing search for a new team principal following Ollie Oakes’ resignation last month. “We’re still looking. Nothing has changed for now. I feel sorry for Ollie — I had a great relationship with him. He resigned for personal reasons. We’re being cautious. I’d rather take time than make a mistake.”

Asked what qualities Alpine is seeking in a new leader, he added: “We’re looking for someone good — someone who understands racing and wants to be part of this journey with Alpine. There are a few candidates who are interested. We’ll make a decision soon.”

Briatore reiterated that the team is in a rebuilding phase: “2025 is a year for restructuring, and 2026 is when we should start being competitive — maybe even fighting for podiums. Why not aim for 2027? It also depends on which drivers we have then.”