BREAKING: Controversial Comeback: Johnny Herbert Slams…read more
Controversial Comeback: Johnny Herbert Slams Flavio Briatore’s F1 Return and Alpine Influence
Johnny Herbert has voiced strong opposition to Flavio Briatore’s return to Formula 1, criticizing the Italian’s growing control over Alpine as an executive advisor. With team principal Oliver Oakes departing after the Miami Grand Prix, Alpine now operates without an official leader—leaving Briatore effectively in charge.
Over the past year, Briatore has been pivotal in shaping Alpine’s strategy, including the decision to scrap their in-house engine program for 2026 in favor of becoming a Mercedes customer. He also championed the promotion of young driver Franco Colapinto, who replaced Jack Doohan starting from the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Despite his influence, Briatore’s reappearance in the sport has stirred backlash, given his lifetime ban from FIA events following the infamous 2008 Singapore Grand Prix race-fixing scandal—where Nelson Piquet Jr. was instructed to crash to benefit teammate Fernando Alonso. Though Briatore’s ban was later overturned in court, many in the F1 community, including Herbert, remain critical.
Speaking to Hochgepokert.com, Herbert warned that Briatore’s management style could be psychologically harmful to drivers, especially those not favored by him. He emphasized how the Italian tends to pick sides, which can be detrimental to the careers of young talents like Doohan.
“He’s back, he’s making the calls, and I don’t agree with it,” Herbert said. “If he supports a driver like Sergio Perez and things go well, it might be a win. But if not, it’s a career-threatening scenario—just ask Jack Doohan.”
Briatore’s polarizing return continues to spark debate as Alpine navigates a turbulent season under his shad
