Buenos Aires, February 25 (NA) – Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore criticized the Argentine Formula 1 driver by stating that “the problem was him,” following a hard crash in his debut at Imola during the 2025 season. According to Diario Olé and information accessed by the Argentine News Agency, the tense moment was captured on camera for one of the episodes of the Netflix documentary series “Drive to Survive,” just hours before the premiere of the eighth season. The 22-year-old driver from Paraná's goal on his debut at the Italian circuit was clear: to make no mistakes. “The problem is you, you need to improve,” Briatore said. The dialogue, as it was broadcast, clearly showed the demands Colapinto had to face in his first season with the French team and the level of stress handled by the drivers in the top category of motorsport. The Argentine was confirmed as a main driver for Alpine mid-season to replace Australian Jack Doohan, but his inconsistent performance was conditioned not only by his driving but also by the car's low level. Despite this scenario, Briatore and the French team opted to confirm Colapinto for the 2026 campaign, where he will team up with Frenchman Pierre Gasly. According to the performance shown in the official tests prior to the start of the Formula 1 season, the Alpine car would have shown a significant change from its previous performance and would have pleased all team members, but it would also have increased the expectations placed on both drivers. However, during Q1 (first qualifying session), Colapinto lost control of the car and crashed into the wall. This incident led to one of the most impactful moments in the preview of the new season with a forceful conversation between Briatore and the light blue driver, which surprised many: Colapinto: “It was my fuck-up.” Briatore: “You shouldn't make those mistakes.” Colapinto: “It was my fuck-up.” Briatore: “Yes, I know, it was your fuck-up, but if your fuck-up breaks the car, it's also my fuck-up.” Colapinto: “We can change things in my car.” Briatore: “I decide what to do.”
