Flavio Briatore criticizes Ferrari again: “I wouldn’t have signed Hamilton, Leclerc is one of the best”. Flavio Briatore remains firm in his criticism of Ferrari.

Flavio Briatore has strong opinions about Ferrari. Speaking from the Australian Grand Prix paddock, he reiterated his stance on Hamilton and Leclerc. The Italian manager, currently focused on bringing Alpine back to the top, would have handled Maranello’s lineup differently. He believes Carlos Sainz, whom he describes as “a tough competitor,” would have once again formed a solid pairing with the number 16.

At nearly 75 years old, Flavio Briatore hasn’t lost his enthusiasm or sharp wit. His arrival at Alpine has already had a positive impact on the French team, with last season’s double podium at Interlagos as proof. The road to consistently fighting at the front is long and challenging, likely postponed until at least 2026, but the experienced manager is clear: “I need to win quickly.”

In an interview with Daniele Sparisci for the Italian daily newspaper Corriere della Sera, Flavio Briatore reflected on a life spent in Formula 1, from which he claims he has “never truly left,” even during his time away from the paddock. Now, back in action as an executive advisor, he draws on his extensive motorsport experience to criticize Ferrari’s choices, arguing that Maranello should have opted for a different driver lineup.

Flavio Briatore: “Hamilton? Ferrari would have been better off with Sainz alongside Leclerc”
The core of Briatore’s argument is that Ferrari already had two excellent drivers. He considers Charles Leclerc “one of the fastest drivers” and even “the best in qualifying.” Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz is also quick and, in Flavio Briatore’s words, “a tough competitor.” In his view, they made a strong duo, and he insists: “I wouldn’t have signed Lewis Hamilton.”

As for the 2025 Formula 1 world championship, the Italian manager once again backs Max Verstappen, comparing him more and more to the best version of Michael Schumacher. Even with a less competitive car, the Dutchman can make a difference on track. He has shown his brilliance by defeating McLaren last year, despite Woking managing to secure the Constructors’ Championship.