Ex-F1 champion claims Flavio Briatore’s Alpine arrival could get F1 back to ‘world of cheating and bad taste’

The Alpine F1 team made a surprise announcement during the Spanish GP. The Enstone-based squad witnessed the return of Flavio Briatore, this time as an Executive Advisor. Briatore was the mastermind behind the infamous Crashgate scandal in 2008. Now, former F1 champion Damon Hill has expressed his concerns over this appointment.

Hill claimed that perhaps Alpine simply wanted Briatore to make a decision on the team’s future. Although, the Italian has dismissed the possibility of selling the team. Moreover, Damon Hill reckoned that this was a ‘fast and loose’ approach by the Enstone-based team, something which Flavio Briatore often does.

Alpine are stiff in a way, aren't they? Maybe they need someone else, like Flavio, that you can make that decision for them and then you can wash your hands over the whole complicated issue... I would say that it is in playing fast and loose. And I'm using that term quite intentionally because that's what flavio does.

Damon Hill told Sky Sports F1

Additionally, the former F1 champion highlighted that the Crashgate mastermind doesn’t always follow rules and that’s why he got in trouble in the past. However, Damon Hill hinted that Briatore might’ve gotten away with lesser consequences that others in this regard. Ultimately, Hill was concerned that Flavio Briatore might bring F1 back to the world of cheating and bad taste. The Italian had given a blunt response to critics during the race in Barcelona.

Obviously, you don't mind the conventions of the rules; that's why he got into trouble. And that's how he's always acted, but maybe he's gotten over the problems a little more easily than other people... we don't want to go back to a 'world' of cheating and bad taste

Damon Hill stated

F1 team bosses defend Flavio Briatore over Alpine return

Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff had some positive comments for the Italian. Wolff claimed that Briatore was an extremely talented businessman. Moreover, the Austrian billionaire claimed that every person deserved a chance to comeback, particularly when someone like him has immense knowledge about Formula 1.

I have known Flavio as an extremely intelligent businessman. You have a lot of knowledge in Formula 1 And I think everyone deserves a chance to come back.

Toto Wolff said, as reported by SoyMotor

Additionally, Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur reckoned that Flavio Briatore’s arrival was a step forward for Alpine and Formula 1. As Briatore could bring in some crucial knowledge for the French team and help improve its prospects in the coming months.

I believe that probably a step forward for Alpine, and in the end it is good for Formula 1 if Alpine returns to the fight.

Fred Vasseur said, as reported by SoyMotor

Certainly, Flavio Briatore has polarized the F1 paddock. The Italian remains confident over his expertise to serve Alpine in his new role. However, it remains to be seen where the French team is headed with pressure from Renault to perform. Briatore would be looking to put the team on a long-term trajectory to get back to the front of the grid.

In case you missed it:

• Christian Horner urges Red Bull to be at the ‘top of its game’ amidst a brewing four-way fight for the world championship
• Lewis Hamilton claims Spanish GP podium needs to be taken with ‘pinch of salt’

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW