Alpine names Oliver Oakes as new Formula 1 team boss, replacing Bruno Famin

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Oliver Oakes as Formula 1 Alpine's team principal

In a significant move within the Formula One paddock, Alpine has announced the appointment of Oliver Oakes as the new team principal, succeeding Bruno Famin.

Oakes, the founder of the highly regarded feeder series team Hitech GP, steps into the role at the age of 36, positioning him as the second-youngest F1 team boss in history. This decision comes just ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, where it was confirmed that Famin would be stepping down, having taken the helm one year after Otmar Szafnauer's departure.

The Renault-affiliated team, rebranded as Alpine in 2021, has faced a turbulent period marked by leadership instability since its return to the F1 grid in 2017. In a move aimed at stabilizing and guiding the team towards a more promising future, Renault recently appointed the seasoned Flavio Briatore to an advisory role.

According to reports, Briatore, while spearheading negotiations with Mercedes regarding a future engine deal for Alpine, was also instrumental in ensuring a long-term figurehead to manage the team’s daily operations. Renault continues to deliberate its stance as an F1 engine manufacturer, adding further significance to this leadership transition.

"I am delighted that we have been able to recruit Oli Oakes for our Formula One project," Briatore stated. "Oli is highly talented with a great record of leadership and success in racing. His move into this role is a great example of the strength and belief we have in our team and by young, upcoming people. I’m excited to work closely with him with a joint focus on moving up the grid and winning races."

Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo echoed these sentiments, expressing optimism about the impact of Oakes' appointment. "It is a pleasure to welcome Oli to the team and for him to become one of the youngest Team Principals that this sport has ever seen. This team is being built for future success and this is highlighted by Oli's appointment in a senior role. We look forward to harnessing his enthusiasm, energy, and passion for racing and realizing that mindset across the entire team."

Oakes, who will officially step into his leadership role when the F1 calendar resumes with the Dutch Grand Prix at the end of April, shared his excitement about this new chapter. "I am extremely grateful to Luca de Meo and Flavio Briatore for this opportunity to lead BWT Alpine F1 Team back to competitiveness," Oakes said. "The team has talented people and excellent resources at its core, and I am confident that we can accomplish a great deal together during the remainder of this season and the longer term. I look forward to getting started after the summer break."

This strategic appointment marks a pivotal moment for Alpine as it aims to enhance its competitiveness and ascend the F1 grid in the coming seasons.

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