Davide Brivio: “I have a lot to learn”

It's a small false start that we hope is harmless. As Davide Brivio began his virtual press conference on the sidelines of the launch of the new A521, the connection of the new competition director Alpine began to show signs of weakness. 

The decision was then made to cut the Italian's video and keep only the audio. In Formula 1, you always have to know how to adapt. This is also the case in MotoGP, where Brivio capped off a decades-long experience with a Drivers’ title with Suzuki. That's one thing the rookie surprised byAlpine will not have to learn in his new responsibilities. 

For the rest, however, the main person concerned is the first to recognize that he is entering a universe whose codes he does not master. But Brivio has a thirst for learning and a desire to do well. 

« It was not easy to leave my old stable, an environment that I knew very well, recognized Brivio this Tuesday. I have dreamed of Formula 1 for a long time. Of course, I have a lot of things to learn, to understand, but I like this adrenaline, it's my oxygen. 

I felt like this was an opportunity I had to take. I would have regretted not accepting this new role. It won't be easy, it will take me time but I am 100% motivated ».

• Focused on the track

What will the scope of action of the new competition director consist of? Alpine ?

« Basically, I will be in charge of track operations, everything that happens at the circuit, Brivio clarified. The team's job is to exploit the car's full potential. We are in a high pressure environment with over 1000 people at enstone and Viry-Châtillon who are preparing the chassis and the power unit.

There are much fewer of us on the track, where we have to get the most out of our equipment. I'm not an engineer, I have to ensure that everyone – engineers, mechanics, and pilots – perform at their best level ». 

Brivio will be particularly expected in the management of drivers, in particular Fernando Alonso whose immense talent we know but also whose sometimes stormy temperament. 

« I think he's a normal guy, he's just ultra-motivated and wants to bring together all the ingredients to get the best out of the team and the car., reassured the Italian. He didn't come back just to drive but also to achieve good results. Of course, it's demanding but I like it. We need this kind of personality, this type of approach ». 

In the new organizational chart Renault, Brivio will work in tandem with executive director Marcin Budkowski, who stepped up over the winter and is coordinating the development of the chassis and powertrain following the surprise departure of Cyril Abiteboul. 

Luca de Meo, CEO of the Renault Group, and Laurent Red, who occupies the same position at the level ofAlpine, have set ambitious goals for the relaunched brand. “ We are committed for the long term and we do not arrive in F1 with the desire to do well, but with the hope of winning. », declared Rossi during the launch of the A521. 

« Everyone on the team is driven by the same desire to win (corn) we must remain realistic, tempered Brivio for his part. Last year, we achieved 3 podium finishes. We got closer to the best. We have to start from there ». 

Before aiming for the summits, Alpine should not neglect the stopover points which still mark the route to the peaks.