Epstein Ties and Horner Rumours Swirl around Briatore

B3ed1ee0 61f8 11ef B43e 6916dcba5cbf
B3ed1ee0 61f8 11ef B43e 6916dcba5cbf

Flavio Briatore is under renewed scrutiny in Formula 1 amid fresh media investigations into his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and growing dysfunction at Alpine, where he serves as team advisor.

A report from Unlimited Hangout has linked Briatore to Epstein’s social circle, citing his name in the late financier’s so-called “black book” alongside Jacques Villeneuve, Eddie Irvine, and other F1 figures.

No charges have been laid and F1 has made no official comment. But the timing is awkward.

Renault CEO Luca de Meo – a key supporter of both the F1 project and Briatore’s return – abruptly resigned recently. His replacement, Francois Provost, is yet to signal any commitment to Alpine’s embattled racing program, as Renault faces growing financial pressure.

Meanwhile, rumours are swirling around Christian Horner, who was ousted by Red Bull recently. According to Sky Deutschland, Ralf Schumacher said: “I don’t know if Horner will return. Sometimes things can change quickly.

“We also have the story with his assistant, Fiona, which was the subject of the investigation. She has apparently now been given a good position at Cadillac and will return to the paddock.”

“Apparently, this story will be brought before the court in January,” Schumacher added, “and I suspect that other teams are waiting for the investigation to be concluded.”

Nico Rosberg told Sky that “Toto Wolff is incredibly afraid that Horner wants to become president of the FIA.

“I think he (Horner) should start a twelfth team, or become the head of Alpine. He has good relations with Flavio Briatore.”

Alpine driver Pierre Gasly, a former Red Bull protege, also weighed in: “Christian has been very, very good at what he has done. I’m sure we’ll see him in some other team. Given Christian’s vast experience and skills, I’m sure many teams will be interested in his services.”

On track, Alpine continues to underperform. Franco Colapinto – championed by Briatore – was spotted flying economy to Budapest, prompting speculation he may be slipping down the pecking order. Mundo Deportivo reported a flight attendant paused boarding to take a selfie with Colapinto, F2’s Pepe Marti, and F3’s Mari Boya.

Briatore, speaking to Auto Motor und Sport, admitted: “If we survive Q1, we often make it to Q3. I have no idea why.”

Comments

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

More in News

F1 Grand Prix Of Hungary

2025 Hungarian Grand Prix: Fast Facts

The Hungaroring provides the backdrop to the last few days ...
Andrea Kimi Cz 250501 F984fc

Mercedes Defends Antonelli as Driver Market Remains Open

Mercedes has moved to ease pressure on Kimi Antonelli following ...
F1 The Movie Brad Pitt Damson Idris

Apple’s F1 Film Hits $509m as Further Deal rumours swirl

Apple's Formula 1 feature film has officially become the tech ...
3b71212db1a68a21774f5507ce768242

Piastri leads McLaren duel as field turns to 2026

The 2025 title fight between Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris ...
Crop 21907333 1

Verstappen Eyes Le Mans Following Latest F1 Frustrations

Max Verstappen has opened up about his future, frustrations, and ...

Trending on F1 Chronicle