P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valtteri Bottas replacing Franco Colapinto? Alpine set the record straight
Flavio Briatore stated that Valtteri Bottas was not seriously considered for a drive with Alpine before he signed with Cadillac. Bottas, a 10-time grand prix winner, will be joining the new Cadillac team for the upcoming F1 season alongside Sergio Perez. Although Alpine inquired about Bottas, Briatore confirmed that a move for the Finnish driver was never a real possibility. Briatore revealed that Alpine may have aided Bottas in securing the contract with Cadillac through marketing efforts. Furthermore, doubts were raised about Franco Colapinto’s future with Alpine due to his challenging start to the season and struggles to meet expectations. It was suggested that Colapinto might need more time before being fully prepared for Formula 1, as he has faced difficulties adapting to the heavy and quick cars in competition with his teammate.
