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Briatore 'not happy at all' with Alpine's 'weak' performance

Photo: Race Pictures

F1 News

08:13, 13 Mar

Updated: 08:26, 13 Mar

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byHenry Eccles

Flavio Briatore has said he was "not happy at all" with Alpine's performance in Melbourne, despite Pierre Gasly's P10 finish earned the French team a point at Albert Park.

Elsewhere, Franco Colapinto could only finish P14, and that overall result has led to Briatore describing the performance in Australia as "weak."

Speaking to media, including GPblog, Briatore also explained where he wants Alpine to be in the pecking order in 2026, alongside Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies, and Audi's Jonathan Wheatley.

'Weak performance' in Melbourne, says Briatore

Photo: Race Pictures

At Friday's press conference, Briatore shared why he was less than pleased with Alpine's result in Melbourne.

"Not happy at all. The performance was very weak, and it was a combination of different factors," Briatore said.

"We know the major problem we have in the car, and try to resolve this as quick as possible.

Briatore quickly turned to the bright side, highlighting Gasly's first point of the season.

"But for the rest, you know, it was the first race and for a long time we have no point in the race in Formula 1. At least we have one point with Pierre and it can happen, you know, so let it pass, it's impossible to change the result."

When asked what goals he has set out for Alpine, Briatore used Wheatley and Mekies next to him to explain Alpine's aspirations, having finished dead last in the Constructors' last year.

"The goal this year is to be in front of him (Wheatley), if it's possible. Close to him (Mekies), if it's possible.

"And this is what we're looking for. We're looking for to be P7, P8, P6 This range, you know, this range of competition.

"So fighting to be in front to all the rest."

Alpine confirm Mercedes negotiations for stake in French F1 team

Briatore also confirmed that it is Mercedes, not Wolff himself, that are in negotiations for the 24% stake up for grabs from Otro Capital.

"But I know there is a negotiation from Mercedes, not with Toto, with Mercedes, and we see. In this moment we have three or four potential buyers."

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