F1 Nation Why have Alpine promoted Colapinto? Ferrari fortunes to change? – 2025 Emilia Romagna GP Preview with Rob Smedley + Lawrence Barretto
11 snips
May 12, 2025 Rob Smedley, a former engineer with Ferrari and Williams, joins F1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto to discuss the significant promotion of Franco Colapinto at Alpine over Jack Doohan. They analyze the impact of team dynamics following the resignation of Alpine’s team principal. Smedley shares insights on Ferrari’s fortunes as they prepare for their home race, and debates about George Russell’s potential as a title contender. The duo also reflects on Williams' progress and the strategic moves necessary for podium finishes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Pressure Affects Rookie Performance
- Jack Doohan faced intense pressure knowing Franco Colapinto was waiting to take his seat.
- That pressure likely impacted his performance negatively in a high-stress Formula One environment.
Rookie Support Is Crucial
- Rob Smedley shared how rookies benefit from having experienced race engineers and teams to guide them.
- He cited 2009 Ferrari's handling of Felipe Massa's accident as an example of challenges with rookie drivers in top teams.
Alpine's Team Principal Dilemma
- Alpine needs a new team principal who can work closely and effectively with Flavio Briatore.
- Finding a person with the right F1 experience, business acumen, and collaboration skills is very challenging.