Written by Sunny
Modified & Updated: 29 Jan 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Flavio Briatore, a name synonymous with the world of Formula One and business, has lived a life full of ups and downs. From his early days in Italy to his rise in the world of motorsport and business, Briatore’s journey is nothing short of fascinating. Here are 27 intriguing facts about this Italian businessman.
Birth and Early Life
Flavio Briatore was born on 12 April 1950 in Verzuolo, Italy.
Initial Career
He began his career as a restaurant manager and insurance salesman in Italy.
Legal Troubles
In the 1980s, Briatore faced several fraud charges in Italy, leading to two prison sentences. However, these convictions were later nullified by an amnesty.
Benetton Franchises
While on the run, Briatore established several successful Benetton franchises in the Virgin Islands and the United States.
Formula One Entry
In 1990, Luciano Benetton promoted him to manage the Benetton Formula One racing team. This team later transformed into Renault F1 in 2002.
Ownership of QPR
From 2007 to 2011, Briatore was a part-owner and chairman of London’s Queens Park Rangers F.C.
Race Fixing Scandal
In 2009, Briatore had to resign from the ING Renault F1 team due to his involvement in race fixing during the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.
Ban from FIA
Following an investigation by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Briatore was indefinitely banned from any events sanctioned by the FIA. However, this ban was later overturned by a French Tribunal de Grande Instance.
Early Struggles
Briatore faced challenges in his early life, including failing public school twice.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
He opened a restaurant named Tribüla, which unfortunately had to close due to excessive debt.
Move to Milan
In the 1970s, Briatore relocated to Milan and worked at the Italian stock exchange. It was during this period that he met Luciano Benetton, the founder of the Benetton clothing company.
Fugitive Status
To avoid imprisonment for his convictions, Briatore lived as a fugitive in Saint Thomas, Virgin Islands.
Benetton’s American Operations
When Benetton opened its first five stores in the U.S. in 1979, Briatore was appointed as the director of the group’s American operations.
Formula One Achievements
Under his leadership, the Benetton team saw significant success, with Michael Schumacher winning the World Drivers’ Championship in 1994 and 1995.
Talent Scout
Briatore is known for his ability to spot talent. He played a crucial role in the career of Fernando Alonso, securing him a race drive with Minardi in 2001.
Renault F1
In 2000, when Renault announced its plans to return to Formula One, Briatore was brought back as the managing director and team principal.
Criticism of Modern F1
Briatore has been vocal about his desire to see F1 provide better entertainment. He has often emphasized the importance of focusing on the entertainment aspect rather than just the technical side.
Business Ventures
Outside of Formula One, Briatore has ventured into various businesses, especially in the fashion industry.
Billionaire Nightclub
He created the Billionaire nightclub brand in 1998 and owns clubs in various locations, including Sardinia and Marbella.
Cipriani’s Restaurant
In 2004, Briatore opened Cipriani’s restaurant in Mayfair, London.
Yacht Ownership
Briatore is the beneficiary of Autumn Sailing Ltd, which purchased the super yacht Force Blue.
Relationship with Naomi Campbell
In 1998, Briatore got engaged to supermodel Naomi Campbell. Their relationship lasted until 2003.
Relationship with Heidi Klum
Briatore dated supermodel Heidi Klum in 2003, and she announced her pregnancy in December of that year.
Marriage to Elisabetta Gregoraci
Briatore married ‘Wonderbra’ model Elisabetta Gregoraci in 2008. The couple has a son.
Political Endeavors
In 2019, Briatore founded the political party Movimento del Fare.
COVID-19 Diagnosis
In August 2020, Briatore was hospitalized after testing positive for COVID-19.
Personal Philosophy
Despite his success, Briatore believes in the importance of entertainment in any business. He once stated that F1 should be a sport of gladiators, not accountants.
Conclusion
Flavio Briatore’s life is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of success. From his humble beginnings in Italy to his rise in the world of Formula One and business, Briatore’s journey is filled with lessons of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of entertainment in business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When was Flavio Briatore born?
Flavio Briatore was born on 12 April 1950 in Verzuolo, Italy.
What was Briatore’s role in the Benetton Formula One team?
He was promoted by Luciano Benetton to manage the Benetton Formula One racing team in 1990.
Did Briatore face any legal troubles?
Yes, in the 1980s, Briatore was convicted on several fraud charges in Italy.
What businesses does Briatore own outside of Formula One?
Briatore has ventured into various businesses, especially in the fashion industry, including the Billionaire nightclub brand and Cipriani’s restaurant in London.
Who are some of the famous personalities Briatore has been associated with in his personal life?
Briatore has been in relationships with supermodels Naomi Campbell and Heidi Klum. He is also married to ‘Wonderbra’ model Elisabetta Gregoraci.
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