peewon wrote: ↑11 Nov 2021, 06:47
First things first, if this is true, not a good indicator of where Alpine might be in development for next season. They would not be looking at drastic restructuring if they felt they were in a good place. Could be wrong, could simply be further developments in Brivio's future intentions.
On to Szafnauer. This is entirely based on his interviews with Sky when they have a team principal join commentary mid-session for a weekend. So may not be worth much, but he seems to completely lack any objectivity. Which I suppose is part of the job of the team principal (to present his team in the best light) when talking to the media. But while other TP's often do it with subtlety and statesmanship, OS has all the nuance of a carnival barker. Budkowski seems far more measured, intelligent and self-aware whenever Ive heard him speak.
His comments after the brake duct controversy and aero rule changes for this year are also fairly embarrassing imo. Sounded like someone trying to cover up their own incompetence or possibly acting as a mouth piece for someone like Lawrence Stroll or Toto.
Couple that with whatever RP/AM has done since Stroll takeover and Szafnauer promotion, I cant point to anything positive which is not explained by simply copying the Merc. I thought opting to go for Vettell was a strange decision too. Telling that AM brought in Whitmarsh before a critical rule change season.
Now, having said that, the role of TP is extends far beyond that behind the scenes and its possible hes excellent but where's the evidence for it?
So to summarize, No. Do not look at it as a positive development while acknowledging reasonable amounts of unknown information which could prove me completely wrong.
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