Flavio Briatore backs Ferrari's management changes

Former Benetton and Renault team boss Flavio Briatore believes Ferrari is right to replace Scuderia team principal Maurizio Arrivabene.

According to Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport, the House of Maranello is on the verge of a major management change with Scuderia technical director Mattia Binotto set to take over Arrivabene's responsibilities as team principal.

The news has yet to be officially confirmed by Ferrari, but sources close to the team claim that John Elkann, the Italian manufacturer's president, has opted to ditch Arrivabene and promote Binotto.

• Arrivabene axed at Ferrari - Binotto set for team principal role!

"This year Ferrari had what it takes to win the championship and it didn't," said, speaking to Italian website Adnkronos.com.

"When you do not win, things have to change and I imagine that those who manage the Scuderia di Maranello have thought in this way."

In Briatore's view, Ferrari had only itself to blame for failing to sustain its championship challenge against Mercedes.

A change of management will likely be salutary for the Italian outfit says Briatore, but the Italian doesn't believe Binotto will assume the dual role of team principal and technical director.

"Binotto did an excellent job as technical director," said the flamboyant Italian.

"Last year Ferrari had a very good car, very fast and with a different management of its drivers it could have brought the world championship home.

"We will see what work he will do as a team principal, certainly I do not think he will have the dual role of team principal and technical director."

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