Jun.4 (GMM) Flavio Briatore has reiterated his innocence some decade and a half after Formula 1’s infamous “crashgate” scandal.
The 75-year-old recently credited F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali for allowing him to return to the paddock as Alpine’s executive advisor, having been banned for life in 2009 for ordering Nelson Piquet to crash on purpose during the 2008 Singapore GP.
Felipe Massa, who narrowly lost the 2008 title to Lewis Hamilton, is currently in the midst of legal action, insisting the deliberate crash cost him points that would otherwise have crowned him champion.
Briatore, however, now suggests to Corriere della Sera that he, in fact, is the real victim of the crashgate conspiracy.
When asked by the newspaper if he ever speaks with former Renault driver Piquet jr, the Italian responded: “No, I don’t care.
“I didn’t even hear from him when he was driving for me.”
Piquet jr, now 39, brought the crashgate affair to light by claiming his then bosses Briatore and Pat Symonds asked him to crash on purpose to trigger a safety car that enabled Fernando Alonso to win the Singapore GP.
“He and I never spoke,” Briatore insists, “and in fact the French court annulled the ban ordered by the FIA and asked for a symbolic refund for me.
“Coincidentally, the president who banned me, (Max) Mosley, is the same one who had banned (Michael) Schumacher.”
Briatore insists he was happy to walk away from F1 in the wake of the scandal.
“When I left I was tired,” he said. “I had won everything, discovered drivers, and it was no longer a business in which to put my heart. It was a job like any other.
“And my son Falco was about to arrive and I wanted to be close to my wife.”
As for those who argue that Briatore should still be banned from Formula 1, Briatore replied: “I’m like a rubber wall.
“I always think that whoever criticises me is worse off than I am. Money gives you great freedom, and not everyone has it.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2025 United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas at the Circuit of the Americas - one of the world's finest racing circuits. This year's event features one of six Sprint races on the F1 schedule. Grand Prix Tours offers a fully appointed, personally tailored race experience for passionate enthusiasts at what has become a great American tradition and another anticipated sold-out event.
SHOW PACKAGES
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES