A whirlwind day at Alpine Racing saw major shake-ups in leadership and driver roles, leaving fans both shocked and intrigued.
- Oliver Oakes steps down as team principal just a year after his appointment, sparking speculation about internal dynamics.
- Flavio Briatore, a seasoned F1 veteran with a controversial past, steps in as the new team principal, raising eyebrows across the community.
- Rookie Franco Colapinto fills Jack Doohan’s seat, set for a five-race evaluation, adding suspense to the upcoming Grands Prix.
- Amidst these changes, Alpine aims to re-strategize as they look towards their 2026 ambitions, setting a new course for the team.
In a dramatic twist that left the racing world buzzing, Alpine Racing announced sweeping changes to both its leadership and driver lineup. In just 24 hours, the team saw Oliver Oakes resign as team principal, while Jack Doohan was demoted from his racing seat to reserve driver status.
Oliver Oakes, who took the helm of Alpine less than a year ago, surprised many with his sudden departure. Known for his pivotal role in Alpine’s previous successes, Oakes helped propel the team to a respectable sixth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship last year. However, this season’s struggles, including a disqualification mishap and early poor performance, may have prompted this unexpected decision.
Filling the gap left by Oakes is none other than Flavio Briatore, a name synonymous with both triumph and controversy in Formula 1. The Italian, renowned for his strategic acumen and contentious career, returns to the forefront of racing. His appointment as team principal adds a layer of intrigue, given his past association with high-profile incidents and his recent role as executive advisor at Alpine.
Meanwhile, Franco Colapinto takes the spotlight as he steps into the role vacated by Doohan. The young driver, previously with Williams, impressed during his limited experience last year, though not without a few missteps. His current task? To prove his mettle over a crucial five-race period, starting with the prestigious Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Alpine’s reshuffled lineup aligns with their vision for the future as they aim to assess their options for the impending 2026 season. With a focus on performance and adaptability, the team looks to harness the potential of its drivers and make strategic choices in upcoming evaluations.
Alpine Racing’s recent changes mark a pivotal moment in their journey, setting the stage for intense scrutiny and anticipation.
