Flavio Briatore praises Alonso's age-defying form, while slamming Ferrari's lack of commitment to F1 success
Former Renault Team Principal Flavio Briatore, praised Alonso's performances in the 2023 F1 season, calling him a true contender for the championship title. He also criticizes Ferrari's ownership for its lack of success in the past 15 years.
Alonso shines as true contender in 2023 F1 season
Flavio Briatore, the former Renault Team Principal, has opened up to Corriere della Sera about the upcoming 2023 Formula 1 season.
He stated that Alonso is a serious contender for the championship title and that he brings enthusiasm to the sport.
He also criticized Ferrari's ownership, saying that they need to reflect on why they haven't won a championship in 15 years.
Briatore praised Alonso's recent performances, saying that he is the real deal and that his age is not a factor.
"At 41 years old, he is faster than the twenty-year-olds. I have never had any doubts about his abilities."
"People said he was too old and not a team player, but that was just nonsense. Give him a car, and he will deliver results. He's exceptional."
Aston Martin takes a risk and sees rewards
Briatore also discussed the decision to move to Aston Martin, stating that they took a risk but that it was worth it.
He praised Lawrence Stroll's passion for the sport and investment in the team, saying that he saw a desire to change that was not present in other teams, such as Alpine.
"I've known Lawrence for 30 years; he's a true F1 enthusiast and a successful entrepreneur."
"He started as a sponsor, then bought the Racing Point team. He took a lot of people from Red Bull and other teams who were working as second or third in command in their respective squads, and gave them more significant responsibilities."
"He invested in wind tunnel technology and the new Silverstone headquarters. If you want to grow, you have to do it like this."
Alonso's enthusiasm brings success to Aston Martin
When asked about Alonso's chances of winning the championship, Briatore said that it was too early to say, but that the Aston Martin car had room for improvement with further developments.
He also emphasized that both the driver and the car are crucial in achieving success, and that Alonso's enthusiasm and ambition have been instrumental in the team's success.
Briatore criticizes Ferrari ownership for lack of success
Turning his attention to Ferrari's continued struggles, Briatore blamed the ownership for their lack of success.
"Around Maranello, there are people who talk during the winter when they should be conducting a thorough analysis of why they haven't won a championship in over 15 years."
He was asked who should do this analyses? Briatore replied: "The ownership of Ferrari, and I don't see them very committed to this."
"It's not enough to change one person. They need heavyweight figures in the team, and now they are not there."
"I remember they started winning consistently when they took 10-12 people away from Benetton. They did well."
How Briatore would address Ferrari situation
When asked what he would have done if in charge at Ferrari, Briatore explained:
"If I had been part of Ferrari, I would have laid down for those rule changes.
" Politically, the team also has to take a closer look."
"Moreover, the previous CEO only wanted Italians to work at Ferrari. That's not going to work in an international sport like Formula 1. That makes no sense at all."
"Last year, in my opinion, the team should have put everything on Leclerc, because the world title is only won by one driver."
"He felt better in the Ferrari car, so then you have to put all your money on him."
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