Alpine Boss Bruno Famin Defends Flavio Briatore’s Return Amid ‘Crashgate’ Controversy

Bruno Famin justifies Alpine's decision to bring Flavio Briatore on board despite his involvement in the 'Crashgate' controversy. Alpine chief Bruno Famin faced tough questions regarding Flavio Briatore's comeback to the Formula 1 team.

Bruno Famin has justified Alpine's choice to bring Flavio Briatore back 15 years after he was permanently banned from Formula 1 due to his involvement in the 'Crashgate' controversy.

In 2009, the 74-year-old had to step down from the Renault team due to his role in the scandal surrounding the manipulation of the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

Nelson Piquet Jr was told to intentionally crash, giving his teammate Fernando Alonso a better chance to win the race, which Alonso eventually did.

Briatore originally received a lifetime ban from F1's governing authority, the FIA, but a French court reversed this decision in 2010.

During a press conference on Friday, Famin was asked about Briatore rejoining the Alpine team as an executive advisor. With the Spanish Grand Prix approaching this weekend, Famin emphasized his focus on the future rather than dwelling on the past.

“I’m not particularly concerned about the past,” Famin responded when questioned about his comfort level regarding the reinstatement of a previously banned individual to F1.

"I constantly focus on the future and consider ways to improve our team. That's truly our objective."

From my perspective, having Flavio on board as a team advisor provides us with a valuable chance to leverage his extensive experience. His deep understanding of Formula 1 and his wide network of contacts are invaluable assets. I am confident that his support will accelerate and enhance our team's development. That's the gist of it.

When questioned more deeply about how he can defend the decision, Famin responded: “Our primary objective is to enhance the team's competitiveness swiftly and effectively."

"We are seeking robust backing and are delighted to have welcomed Davide Sanchez as our new technical director. This is an excellent opportunity, and we have moved swiftly to take advantage of it."

Mercedes chief Toto Wolff and Ferrari leader Frederic Vasseur both supported Briatore's comeback. Wolff highlighted that the goal with Flavio is to enhance the team as quickly as possible. He emphasized that Flavio’s expertise, connections, and influence are valuable assets that they are fully utilizing to strengthen the team.

“We should allow some time for recovery from these circumstances,” Wolff stated.

"I have always regarded Flavio as an exceptionally intelligent entrepreneur. He possesses extensive expertise in Formula 1. Throughout the more than ten years that I have been closely interacting with him and maintaining a friendly relationship, all the advice he has given me has been beneficial."

"There is a wealth of experience and knowledge accumulated over 40 years in Formula 1, as Bruno mentioned. I believe everyone deserves a chance to return. For me, having another intelligent individual at Alpine, someone who can simplify issues and use common sense, is definitely advantageous given Alpine's current situation."

In the meantime, Vasseur commented: "On the whole, I believe it represents progress for Alpine, and it benefits F1 if Alpine returns to the competition. We understand the background. I think he has faced the consequences. If he is now permitted to make a return, then he should be able to do so."

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