Patrese Warns Colapinto: Briatore’s Explosive Potential Unleashed

Franco Colapinto’s Uncertain Future at Alpine

Franco Colapinto, the Argentine driver currently under contract with Alpine, has publicly stated that he is not overly concerned about his future with the team. He claims to have the support of Flavio Briatore, the executive director of Alpine, who is known for his strong influence within the organization. However, former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has issued a warning, suggesting that Briatore’s favor can change as quickly as a “bomb” exploding.

Colapinto made a name for himself last year as a super sub during his nine-race stint with Williams, impressing many in the paddock. His performance caught the attention of Alpine, who signed him as one of their official reserve drivers during the off-season. This move added pressure on Jack Doohan, the team’s debutant driver, who was eventually replaced after failing to meet expectations.

Despite being given the opportunity, Colapinto has yet to deliver consistent results. In six races, he has not scored any points, and his record includes two notable crashes. The first occurred during qualifying at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, where he lost control of the car. A second incident followed during the Silverstone Grand Prix, further raising concerns about his performance.

After the latest crash, Alpine executive director Flavio Briatore was seen on camera with his head in his hands, signaling the growing frustration within the team. This has led to speculation that Colapinto could be replaced before the end of the season. According to sources close to the situation, Valtteri Bottas has had positive discussions with Alpine regarding a potential mid-season driver change.

In addition to Bottas, Alpine is also in talks with Sergio Perez, a former Red Bull driver. However, these discussions are reportedly focused on the 2026 season rather than an immediate swap.

Riccardo Patrese, who once raced under Briatore’s leadership with Benetton in 1993, has shared his concerns about the unpredictable nature of the Italian executive. Patrese described Briatore as a “bomb” that could explode at any moment, referencing the instability that can come with such a volatile figure in the sport.

“Anything can happen with Briatore,” Patrese said in an interview with a betting website. “From my point of view, Briatore is like a bomb that can explode at any minute; a Second World War bomb that you discover in some places around the world which goes off. With Colapinto not performing and making accidents, he can have a problem with Briatore who won’t help with a driver’s morale.”

Despite these warnings, Colapinto remains confident in his position. He has told the media that Briatore has been very supportive and that he trusts the decision made by the team. During a press conference in Austria, Colapinto emphasized that he is not worried about his future, stating that his focus is on helping Alpine improve.

At Silverstone, a week after his initial five-race deal expired, Colapinto acknowledged that his contract is now race by race. However, he reiterated that his primary goal is to assist the team in achieving better results.

When asked whether Alpine had set clear goals for retaining his seat long-term, Colapinto responded that no such targets had been discussed. He emphasized the team’s collective effort to improve, noting that while he performs well in races, he struggles more in qualifying.

“I know that there is things to find on our side, but also I think in general as a team, we need to still do a step with the car,” he said. “We are not quite there to score points every race, that’s what we want. And I think we need to make things better on every side as well, a part of just focusing on that.”

As the season progresses, the pressure on Colapinto will likely continue to mount. Whether he can turn his performance around or face a potential exit from Alpine remains to be seen.