Alpine team advisor Flavio Briatore says rookie driver Franco Colapinto simply needs "time" to find his footing in Formula 1.
Colapinto, 21, was brought in to replace Jack Doohan, who only had six races to prove himself before being sidelined. While the Argentine was initially given a five-race guarantee, Briatore has since scrapped that commitment, insisting performance will be the deciding factor.
So far, Colapinto's outings in Imola, Monaco, and now Barcelona have been disappointing. When asked by Diario Sport in Barcelona if he fears being replaced after five races, the young driver replied: "I can't say anything about that.
"It's not a question for me – others should answer it."
Colapinto joined Alpine on loan from Williams, with reports suggesting Alpine paid $20 million for the privilege. But even his former boss James Vowles urged patience.
"Whether it's Franco or others, give them time," Vowles said on Friday.
"It takes time to adapt to a Formula 1 car."
In Barcelona, Colapinto struggled again, finishing last in both Friday practice sessions.
"I couldn't find the rhythm," he said. "The car was very disconnected."
Known for his no-nonsense approach, Briatore has launched the careers of legends like Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso — but also gained a reputation for being ruthless with underperforming drivers.
"I never tell five races, three races, four races, one race," Briatore said.
"If Colapinto is performing he's driving the car. If not, we'll see."
Still, Briatore insists the pressure isn't immediate.
"Absolutely not," he told Sky Italia when asked if Colapinto's seat is already in jeopardy. "We have to give Franco time. We know we are in a transition year, but we have to do better with both drivers."
