In 2009, Flavio Briatore departed from F1 under shameful circumstances.
Flavio Briatore could make a surprise comeback to the Renault F1 team after CEO Luca de Meo reportedly requested the 71-year-old return to the side he once managed.
According to reports in Italy, Briatore, who was once the enigmatic face of the Renault team in the early 2000s, left in disgrace after the infamous ‘Crashgate’ incident in 2008. However, it is said that he has maintained strong connections with individuals in the paddock.
Renault opt for Flavio Briatore return?
Although the Italian exited F1 in 2009, he frequently appears in the paddock after his ban was lifted. Not only does he act as Fernando Alonso’s manager, but recent reports suggest that he has become even more involved by returning to Enstone in a more active capacity.
According to Corriere della Sera, Renault CEO has called Briatore to ask if he would return to the team and that offer has reportedly been accepted. The role given to the Italian is that of a special supervisor and does not include constant involvement in track activities.
The Alpine team’s spokesperson informed PlanetF1.com that they frequently engage with a variety of industry experts to enhance their overall performance.
“We carefully analyze all pertinent inputs and, whenever suitable, consult individuals with expertise and proven track records. However, we are unable to provide any remarks on specific individual cases.”
At a time when the team is facing its worst start to the season in recent memory, and amidst more controversy in Monaco, Esteban Ocon is confronted with the potential consequence of being sidelined for the upcoming race. This situation arises following his collision with team-mate Pierre Gasly.
In addition to the departure of senior technical figures Alan Permane, who was dismissed last year and subsequently joined RB, as well as technical director Matt Harman and head of aerodynamics Dirk de Beer, who departed earlier this year, there have been some changes within the team. However, amidst these transitions, David Sanchez has joined the team after a failed stint at McLaren, proving that he has managed to find stability in his career.
Briatore is said to be responsible for enticing new staff to join Enstone, and he has reportedly discussed with Adrian Newey the potential of him leaving Red Bull and joining the team.
Esteban Ocon benching under ‘serious consideration’
Team boss Bruno Famin was infuriated by Esteban Ocon’s crash with his teammate in Monaco, presenting yet another challenge for the team to overcome.
Famin made a subtle suggestion to Canal+ about Ocon being excluded from the upcoming race in Canada, and Craig Slater from Sky Sports has hinted that it might not be an idle warning.
Slater started by mentioning Bruno Famin’s presence on the pit wall with Canal+. Famin was contacted by Canal+ right after the first-lap crash, and he expressed his anger while discussing a difficult decision. Many people have understood this as Famin’s intention to sideline Esteban Ocon for the upcoming race in Canada.
Alpine boss Bruno Famin is seriously considering the matter and will make the best decision for the team. While he contemplates the idea of leaving Esteban Ocon out for a week to emphasize the importance of team discipline, he has not yet made a final decision.
After the Grand Prix yesterday, Ocon and Famin had personal meetings to address the situation. Ocon offered his apologies privately and face-to-face, as well as publicly through social media. Now, we’ll wait and see what unfolds.
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