Just a few days after Flavio Briatore was officially appointed as a consultant at Alpine, the Italian businessman has already approached Carlos Sainz’s camp. The French racing team is actively seeking a replacement for Esteban Ocon. Sainz is one of the most sought-after drivers on the market, despite the fact that the Spaniard does not yet have a seat for the upcoming year.
Flavio Briatore and Carlos Sainz Sr., father of the Formula 1 driver and a key representative of his management, were spotted together in the paddock in Spain. Media present confirmed that numbers were exchanged. This reignited the rumor mill – Sainz seemed to be heading for a contract with Williams or Sauber, but now Alpine also seems to be a serious option.
Alpine had a difficult start to the current Formula 1 season. After several pointless races, the team was at the bottom of the championship for a while. However, the French seem to have caught up. In Barcelona, drivers Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon scored the necessary points. The latter has to leave Enstone next year, while Gasly is still waiting for a new contract.
This offers perspective for Carlos Sainz, who has a good chance of joining Alpine through Briatore. In addition to the Spaniard, Mick Schumacher and reserve driver Jack Doohan are also vying for a seat at the French racing team. Both are expected to participate in a test day at Circuit Paul Ricard soon.
