In a dramatic turn of events in the world of Formula 1, Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes has resigned from his position effective immediately, following a disappointing performance at the Miami Grand Prix. The announcement, made on May 6, 2025, has sent ripples through the paddock as Flavio Briatore, the controversial figure who previously faced a lifetime ban from the sport, steps in to take over Oakes' duties.
The resignation comes on the heels of a challenging race for Alpine, where driver Jack Doohan retired on the very first lap and Pierre Gasly finished outside the points. The team's official statement confirmed Oakes' departure, expressing gratitude for his efforts since joining the team last summer. "BWT Alpine Formula One announces that Oliver Oakes has resigned from his role as Team Principal. The team has accepted the resignation with immediate effect. As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as Executive Advisor and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes. The team would like to thank Oliver for his efforts since he joined last summer and for his contribution in helping the team secure sixth place in the 2025 Constructors’ Championship. The team will not be making any further comment," the statement read.
Oakes, who had been with Alpine for less than a year, took over from Bruno Famin and was seen as a key player in stabilizing the team amidst ongoing turmoil. His departure raises questions about the internal dynamics at Alpine, particularly concerning Briatore's influence. Known for his previous successes with the team, Briatore's return to a leadership role could signal a shift in strategy as Alpine prepares for the upcoming races.
As the dust settles from Oakes' resignation, speculation mounts regarding the team's driver lineup. Reports indicate that Franco Colapinto is set to replace Doohan starting from the next race at Imola. This decision was reportedly communicated to Doohan just days before Oakes' resignation, leading many to believe that Oakes' exit was a direct reaction to Briatore's controversial driver decisions. Sources suggest that Briatore had courted Colapinto during his time with Williams, despite Alpine's commitment to Doohan.
The dynamic between Oakes and Briatore was fraught with tension, particularly regarding driver selections. Oakes had publicly supported Doohan, even as doubts about the young driver's potential lingered. The friction between the two figures became evident as Briatore's decisions often undermined Oakes' authority, forcing him to defend choices made without his consent.
Oakes' tenure was marked by attempts to stabilize a team that has struggled to escape the midfield for over a decade. Despite some progress, Alpine currently sits ninth in the world championship standings after six races. The team's decision to cease building their own power units and switch to customer engines from Mercedes starting in 2026 reflects a broader strategy to regain competitiveness.
Briatore, who has a storied history with the team, previously led it to multiple championships during its time as Benetton and Renault. His controversial past, including his involvement in the infamous Crashgate scandal, has cast a long shadow over his return. In 2008, Briatore was implicated in a scheme to manipulate a race outcome, resulting in a lifetime ban that was later overturned in court. His return to Alpine as an executive advisor in 2024 was met with mixed reactions, given the negative publicity surrounding his previous tenure.
Now, with Briatore stepping back into a principal role, the team's direction could shift significantly. While Oakes aimed to bring stability and a fresh perspective, Briatore's approach may lean towards more aggressive tactics. The upcoming races will be crucial for Alpine as they navigate this leadership transition and seek to improve their standings in the championship.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Briatore's return impacts the team's performance and whether the changes in driver lineup will yield better results. With Colapinto set to debut in Imola, the pressure will be on both him and the team to deliver a strong showing.
As the situation continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: Alpine's journey in Formula 1 is far from straightforward. With a history of upheaval and change, the team must now find its footing once again under Briatore's leadership. The stakes are high, and the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether this latest chapter will lead to success or further turmoil.
