Briatore confirms hot Alpine rumours – Flavio Briatore confirms Alpine rumours: Jack Doohan’s place under threat? The Formula One paddock has been abuzz with speculation over the future of Alpine driver Jack Doohan, with questions being raised as to whether his F1 career could be cut short before it really gets off the ground. Now Alpine’s influential special advisor Flavio Briatore has weighed in, confirming rumours that the team are considering their options for 2025.
These revelations come amid an increasingly competitive F1 landscape, where every seat on the grid is a precious commodity. With Williams rookie sensation Franco Colapinto emerging as a potential replacement, the situation has taken on added urgency. Briatore’s candid comments provide a rare insight into Alpine’s strategic thinking as the team looks to improve its performance and chase championship glory.

Doohan’s challenging start
Jack Doohan, son of five-time World Motorcycle Champion Mick Doohan, joined Alpine under immense pressure. Despite a strong junior career, his Formula One debut in Abu Dhabi left much to be desired.
While his team-mate Pierre Gasly secured an impressive seventh place, Doohan finished second from last, a result that left fans and insiders questioning whether he was up to the demands of F1.
Briatore, known for his keen eye for talent and no-nonsense management style, was reportedly keeping a close eye on Doohan’s performance. His position as special advisor to Alpine gives him considerable influence, and he appears to have wasted no time in assessing the rookie’s potential.
Cadillac F1 engine delayed to next decade – if ever

Franco Colapinto: The Rising Star
Amidst Doohan’s struggles, Franco Colapinto has emerged as a compelling alternative. The Williams driver, who has impressed in his early F1 outings, has attracted attention not only for his on-track performances but also for his marketability.
The young Argentinian has attracted considerable interest in South America, making him an attractive prospect for teams looking to broaden their global appeal and secure sponsorship opportunities.
Although Colapinto has yet to secure a full-time seat for 2025, Briatore’s interest could change that. Alpine have reportedly already made contact with the driver, signalling their intention to explore all possible avenues.
Coulthard: What really happened to Red Bull in 2024
Briatore speaks: No room for complacency
Asked directly by *Sport Bild* about his involvement in these discussions, Briatore was frank.
“Yes, it’s true,” he confirmed, admitting that he had been in contact with Colapinto. Explaining his approach, he said: “I’m always looking for the best options for us.”
This blunt admission underlines Briatore’s pragmatic philosophy. His tenure in F1 has been marked by bold decisions and a relentless pursuit of excellence, traits that helped him guide Michael Schumacher to championship glory at Benetton in the 1990s. Now he aims to bring that same winning mentality to Alpine.
F1’s new plan to prevent ‘cheats’
Alpine’s current line-up and reserve talent
Despite the swirling rumours, Briatore expressed his support for current Alpine drivers Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan.
“Gasly did a great job last season and we are starting the new season with him and Jack,” he said. However, he left the door open for possible changes, adding, “But who knows what will happen?”
Briatore also pointed to Paul Aron, Alpine’s reserve driver and third place finisher in Formula 2, as another viable option. Aron’s inclusion in the conversation highlights the depth of talent at Alpine and the pressure Doohan is under to secure his position.
F1 CEO told Red Bull to “slow down” in 2024
Ex-F1 champ slams Hamilton behaviour as “very strange and inappropriate”

The Bigger Picture: Alpine’s championship ambitions
For Alpine, these decisions are not just about individual drivers, but about positioning the team as a championship contender.
“The world championship is definitely the goal for Alpine,” Briatore emphasised.
“And I’m not talking about years, I’m talking about months when it comes to changes”.
This urgency reflects Alpine’s wider ambitions in a sport where the margins for success are razor thin. The team’s management is clearly prepared to make bold moves to ensure they remain competitive, even if it means parting ways with a promising rookie.
McLaren boss admits Verstappen “noise” a distraction
Briatore’s Legacy: A story of bold moves
Briatore’s reputation as a decisive and often ruthless team leader preceded him. In 1991, he famously spotted Michael Schumacher’s potential after just one race for Jordan and promptly signed him to Benetton.
The move proved pivotal, launching Schumacher’s record-breaking career and establishing Briatore as one of the sport’s most astute talent scouts.
Could history repeat itself with Colapinto? If Briatore sees parallels between the young Argentine and the stars of the past, he may not hesitate to take a similar gamble.
Marko reveals latest on Red bull 2025 F1 car
A defining moment for Alpine and Doohan
The confirmation of Briatore’s contact with Colapinto has cast a shadow over Jack Doohan’s future at Alpine. While the Australian driver still has a chance to prove himself in 2025, the pressure to perform will be immense. Meanwhile, Alpine’s quest for championship success means that no seat is safe from scrutiny.
As the 2025 season approaches, the dynamics within the team will undoubtedly remain a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Whether Briatore’s interest in Colapinto comes to fruition or Doohan rises to the occasion, one thing is clear: Alpine are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for greatness.
READ MORE – Ex-F1 champ slams Hamilton behaviour as “very strange and inappropriate”
MORE F1 NEWS – Verstappen announces a disaster
Celebrated as one of the most dominant drivers in Formula 1 history, Max Verstappen has shocked fans with a rare moment of vulnerability. Fresh from securing his fourth consecutive world championship, the Red Bull ace has cast doubt on his chances of winning the title in 2025.
Despite his remarkable consistency and skill, Verstappen has expressed concerns about his team’s performance trajectory, particularly in the second half of the 2024 season. In a candid interview with *De Telegraaf*, Verstappen did not shy away from addressing Red Bull Racing’s challenges. He warned that if the team did not address several pressing issues with their RB20 car, next season could mark the end of their championship reign…READ MORE ON THIS STORY
With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.

