Flavio Briatore, boss and newly appointed team principal of Alpine in Formula 1, has defended his controversial decision to sideline Jack Doohan for Franco Colapinto for five races.
In a recent interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Briatore addressed Doohan's recent performance struggles and explained what he believed had to be done as a manager.
“Mistakes are inevitable,” Briatore said when asked about what his past mistakes had taught him.
“If you’re doing things, you’re going to make them. The key is to quickly adjust your course as soon as you realise it, without letting your pride keep you stuck on the wrong track.”
When asked whether this philosophy influenced his decision to replace Doohan, he responded, “Exactly. That’s a good example."
“Even in the past, I decided to put a very young Fernando Alonso in the driver’s seat. Back then, he was just a test driver, replacing the more experienced Jenson Button.
“That decision unleashed the fury of the British press. But in the end, I was right.
“A manager is always alone when making big decisions,” he added. “Then, over time, others come around.”
Doohan was promoted to a full-time seat this year after spending two seasons on the sidelines supporting the team. However, after failing to score points in the first six races, he has been temporarily replaced. The Miami Grand Prix marked his last appearance, for now.
MORE: Where is Jack Doohan now? Why Australian rising star was axed by Alpine, and can he return to F1?
Colapinto is set for five races in Imola, Monaco, Spain, Canada, and Austria. Despite the opportunity, Colapinto has also struggled, failing to score points in his first three races and crashing right away at the first race during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend.
His performances in the final two races, Canada and Austria, are expected to be crucial in determining his long-term future with Alpine.