Franco Colapinto's tears at Monza show the damage Flavio Briatore has done to Alpine

Franco Colapinto expressed deep disappointment after finishing P9 at the Italian Grand Prix, despite it being one of his better results this season. His emotional reaction, where he referred to himself as an 'idiot', reflects the immense pressure he feels under Flavio Briatore's leadership at Alpine, where results are demanded relentlessly. Colapinto's struggles have been exacerbated by Briatore's high expectations and a volatile team environment, which has led to significant changes within the team since Briatore's arrival in 2024.

Briatore's management has created a tense atmosphere, as he previously dismissed drivers he deemed underperforming, including Esteban Ocon and Jack Doohan. Although Colapinto has secured a seat for 2027, his recent performance and emotional breakdown raise concerns about the sustainability of such pressure on drivers. The situation poses challenges for attracting new talent to the team, as potential drivers may be deterred by the high-stress environment fostered by Briatore's no-nonsense approach.