Briatore Reveals Reason for Joining Alpine F1 Team
- Former Alpine team principal Flavio Briatore confirmed that securing a partnership with mercedes engines was his sole and non-negotiable condition for taking on the leadership role at the...
- Briatore made the announcement on January 24, 2026, during an interview with Sky Sport Italia.He stated that without the assurance of Mercedes power units, he would not have...
- This disclosure adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions surrounding engine supply in Formula 1.
Briatore Reveals Mercedes Engines Were Condition for Alpine Role
Former Alpine team principal Flavio Briatore confirmed that securing a partnership with mercedes engines was his sole and non-negotiable condition for taking on the leadership role at the Renault-owned Formula 1 team. This revelation contradicts Briatore’s previous statements where he denied any such stipulation.
Briatore made the announcement on January 24, 2026, during an interview with Sky Sport Italia.He stated that without the assurance of Mercedes power units, he would not have accepted the position. “The Mercedes engine was my only condition,” Briatore reportedly said. “Without it, I wouldn’t have come.”
This disclosure adds a new layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions surrounding engine supply in Formula 1. Alpine currently uses Renault engines, but has been exploring options for future power unit partnerships. The potential switch to Mercedes would represent a significant shift for the team.
Prior to this statement, Briatore publicly downplayed the importance of engine supply in his decision to join Alpine. This latest admission suggests a strategic negotiation tactic or a change in perspective following internal discussions.