In the high-octane world of Formula 1, every season brings a blend of anticipation and uncertainty. Teams strive to redefine their destinies, and Alpine is no exception. With a historic legacy entwined in motorsport, the path ahead signifies both challenges and opportunities for the French squad.
As the 2026 season looms, the whispers from Alpine’s Executive Advisor, Flavio Briatore, indicate a palpable drive for transformation. Emphasizing the need for a competitive edge, Briatore insists that the team not only must be ready to assert themselves on the track but also be prepared to witness the elusive podium more frequently. Reflecting on his return nearly a year ago, he acknowledged the significant changes sweeping through Alpine and noted the time necessary for the team to adapt and evolve. Sitting at the bottom of the 2025 Teams’ Championship, championship aspirations often feel distant, yet Briatore remains hopeful as new developments, including a new Mercedes-Benz engine and gearbox, are on the horizon for the next year. The strategic vision encompasses more than just short-term gains; Briatore dreams of challenging for victories and titles by 2027, a statement that underscores the importance of a united and potent team. However, achieving that vision hinges on overcoming the current hurdles, including the search for a new Team Principal, following recent resignations, which adds another layer of complexity to an already multifaceted strategy.

Flavio Briatore, the renowned figure in Formula 1, has returned to the fold as Executive Advisor for Alpine, and he is not shy about sharing his ambitious targets for the team. With the goal of seeing Alpine consistently on the podium and ultimately vying for championships after 2026, Briatore has laid out a roadmap that reflects both his experience and vision for the team. It’s been almost a year since he rejoined the organization, during which he has initiated vital changes aimed at revitalizing a team that has gone through significant upheaval in recent years.
While assessing the team’s journey since his return, Briatore acknowledged that more time is needed for the team to gel and become competitive. “We’re back in the business, with Alpine,” he remarked during a press conference. His focus on overcoming the challenges stemming from recent organizational changes signifies a commitment to restoring Alpine’s former glory, a mission that is no small feat. Currently, Alpine sits at the bottom of the 2025 Teams’ Championship with only 11 points to their name, which emphasizes the urgency and necessity for improvement.
Briatore’s vision is not merely about participation; it’s about effective transformation. He pointed out that the upcoming season would feature a new engine and gearbox sourced from Mercedes-Benz, which he sees as a critical stepping stone toward achieving a more competitive standing. The message is clear: the aim is not just to survive but to thrive in the cutthroat world of Formula 1. This opportunity to enhance their technical arsenal is something that can make or break a season, and Briatore is both realistic and optimistic about the future.
What are the key challenges faced by alpine?
One of the more pressing challenges facing Alpine is the recruitment of a new Team Principal following Oliver Oakes’ resignation. Briatore is currently managing both the advisory and managerial roles, filling in the gaps while the team searches for a permanent replacement. This dual role places an added layer of complexity on his responsibilities. “We’re looking. For the moment, nothing changed,” he stated, reflecting his understanding that organizational stability is vital for performance.
The sudden departure of Oakes highlighted lingering issues within the team structure, challenges that are not unique to Alpine. As the industry evolves rapidly, maintaining team cohesion and a clear direction becomes critical. Briatore emphasizes the need for clarity within the organization, hinting at unresolved issues that must be addressed before real improvement can occur. This arduous task requires careful consideration of personnel, strategy, and ultimately, vision—all elements crucial to achieving success on the track.
Moreover, his remarks underline a broader trend where teams grapple with internal conflicts that might undermine their potential for success. The Formula 1 landscape is fiercely competitive, and without a united front, it’s easy for teams like Alpine to falter. Notably, Briatore’s candid approach reflects an acute awareness that dreams and ambitions require a solid framework to materialize.
How does briatore plan to make alpine competitive by 2026?
To realize his ambitious goals for Alpine, Briatore has drawn upon his extensive experience from the past. He made it evident that while he expects improved results by 2026, he understands that success does not happen overnight. “You see this maestro next to me,” he said, referring to Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner. “It takes a lot of time to build a winning car, a winning race, a winning team.” This encapsulates his belief in gradual development rather than instant gratification.
Briatore’s strategy includes fostering a culture of excellence and synergy within the team. He categorically noted that the current iteration of the team and its personnel are still adjusting and maturing. Creating a cohesive environment where team members can work efficiently and collaboratively is paramount to his strategy. The focus on building strong relationships, both internally and externally, will be vital for Alpine as they aim higher.
Another dimension of his plans for Alpine encompasses a commitment to driver development. He reflects on how crucial the drivers’ performances will be for achieving the team’s ambitions. The 2026 season presents an opportunity to recruit and develop talent that aligns with the team’s objectives. He understands the risk-element of Formula 1—its unpredictability and the necessity to adapt swiftly to changes. This approach will undoubtedly play a substantial role in Alpine’s trajectory as they seek to rise from their current standing.
What does success look like for alpine in 2026 and beyond?
Briatore’s ultimate definition of success for Alpine extends beyond mere participation in races. His vision is clear: to see Alpine making a mark on the podium consistently. He reiterated the significance of chasing that elusive win, expressing enthusiasm to cultivate a winning mentality within the team. “We need to be competitive… we are not competitive for the moment, like I want, but [it] takes time,” he explained, reinforcing the need for perseverance and patience from both the team and its fans.
The road to achieving this vision is riddled with challenges, yet Briatore’s optimism shines through. His statement “I’m very optimistic… let me dream!” encapsulates both his ambition and the spirit he hopes to inspire within the squad. He indicated that by 2027, Alpine could be challenging not just for race wins but potentially for championships. The allure of Formula 1, with its rapid evolution and cutthroat competition, serves as a backdrop to Briatore’s aspirational outlook.
With several organizational changes underway, one thing remains clear: Briatore is not taking these challenges lightly. Backed by strategic partnerships, such as with Mercedes-Benz for their engine and gearbox, the pathway to success is gradually uncovering itself. For fans and followers of Alpine, this excitement could lead to a renaissance for the team, one that honors their legacy while chasing new accolades.
In summary, as Flavio Briatore takes charge and steers Alpine towards a future of competitiveness and success, it is evident that both fans and industry insiders alike will be closely watching the developments unfold. His vision challenges not only the team but also ignites ambitions within the entire sport, reminding everyone involved that in Formula 1, the race for glory is unrelenting and ever-demanding.