Oliver Oakes Resigns as Team Principal of Alpine F1
In a surprising turn of events, Oliver Oakes has stepped down from his position as Team Principal of the Alpine Formula One team, effective immediately. This announcement marks a significant shift for the team, especially considering Oakes had only taken on the role in July of the previous year, succeeding Bruno Famin. During his tenure, Oakes worked closely with Flavio Briatore, who serves as the team’s executive advisor. Following Oakes’ resignation, Briatore will temporarily assume his responsibilities.
The Alpine team confirmed the news, stating, "BWT Alpine Formula One Team announces that Oliver Oakes has resigned from his role as Team Principal. The team has accepted his 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 expressed gratitude for Oakes’ contributions, particularly in leading the team to a sixth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship during the 2024 season. However, they opted not to provide any further comments regarding the situation.
During Oakes’ time with the Alpine team, there were noticeable advancements in the performance of their Formula One cars. After a difficult start to the 2024 season, the Enstone-based team began to make strides on the track. However, the current 2025 season has presented its own challenges, with Alpine currently sitting in ninth place on the constructors’ leaderboard.
The changes within the team come amid a broader restructuring process initiated by Renault’s CEO, Luca de Meo. In a significant shift, Renault has decided to discontinue the in-house development of its 2026 power unit project, which was based in Viry-Chatillon. Instead, the company will now partner with Mercedes as a customer team for their power units. This strategic decision indicates a major change in direction for Alpine, reflecting the evolving landscape of Formula One.
Before joining Alpine, Oliver Oakes had aspirations to enter Formula One with his Hitech junior formula team, which competes in feeder series such as Formula 2, Formula 3, and the F1 Academy. His experience in these competitive environments provided him with a unique perspective as he transitioned to a senior role within a Formula One team.
The news of Oakes’ resignation came unexpectedly, raising questions about the dynamics between him and Briatore. With Briatore being a prominent figure in the Renault F1 hierarchy, speculations had circulated regarding how long the two would work together effectively. Oakes’ departure adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing developments within the team.
As the Alpine team navigates this transition, they face the pressing challenge of improving their performance on the track. With the 2025 season underway and the team currently in ninth place, there is a sense of urgency to reverse their fortunes. The leadership change may prompt a fresh approach and revitalization within the team as they seek to regain competitiveness in the sport.
The upcoming races will be crucial for Alpine as they aim to regroup and refocus their efforts. With Flavio Briatore at the helm temporarily, it will be interesting to see how the team adapts under his guidance. Briatore is known for his extensive experience and strategic mindset, which could provide stability during this transitional period.
Looking ahead, the Alpine team will need to address several key areas to improve their standing in the Constructors’ Championship. This includes refining their car’s performance, enhancing race strategies, and ensuring effective communication among team members. The collaboration between the technical staff, drivers, and management will be vital to overcoming the challenges they currently face.
As Formula One continues to evolve with new regulations and increased competition, teams like Alpine must stay agile and responsive to change. The decision to partner with Mercedes for power units is a strategic move that could yield benefits in the long run. However, the immediate focus will be on maximizing their existing resources and capabilities to achieve better results on the grid.
The Alpine team has a rich history in the sport, and the departure of Oakes serves as a reminder of the constant flux within the Formula One landscape. While leadership changes can create uncertainty, they also present opportunities for growth and innovation. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how they navigate this pivotal moment in their journey.
In conclusion, Oliver Oakes’ resignation as Team Principal of Alpine F1 marks a significant development for the team as they seek to improve their performance in the highly competitive world of Formula One. With the immediate future in the hands of Flavio Briatore, the team is poised for a period of adjustment and potential revival. The next steps will be crucial as Alpine aims to reclaim its place among the frontrunners in the championship standings.
