Ralf Schumacher, former Formula 1 driver and current analyst, considers Flavio Briatore too old for his new role as Alpine team boss. The Italian businessman took over the duties of the British Oliver Oakes after his unexpected departure. Franco Colapinto also landed a new job as a replacement for Jack Doohan, a decision Schumacher understands: ‘Doohan is simply not good enough for Formula 1.’
Alpine announced last Tuesday that Oliver Oakes has stepped down as team boss. Senior advisor Flavio Briatore is taking over the duties of the departed Brit. The Italian businessman released a statement less than a day later, clarifying that Oakes did not leave due to internal disagreements.
“His choice is wrongly linked to a disagreement or divergent views. That is far from the truth,” Briatore explains. “Oliver Oakes and I have an excellent relationship and share the same ambitions to bring Alpine back to the top.” Briatore’s appointment also coincided with a dismissal for Jack Doohan. The Alpine driver was immediately replaced by Franco Colapinto.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher understands why Alpine has relegated Doohan to a role as reserve driver. “He’s a nice guy, but he’s just not good enough for Formula 1,” the analyst tells Sky Deutschland. “Briatore believes in Colapinto, and he also brings a lot of (sponsor) money with him.”
‘Too old’
Schumacher has a very different opinion about Briatore himself. The six-time Grand Prix winner labels the Italian as ‘too old’ for the role of team boss. “In his role as advisor and with his experience, he was doing really great,” Schumacher continues. “But he is too old to work every day as a team boss.” Briatore previously worked as team boss of Renault, the former name of Alpine. “Flavio will always do his own thing. That’s why Oliver Oakes left. However, Flavio has no problem with that. From what I’ve heard, Flavio does everything himself, but I hope not.”
