Flavio Briatore denies rift with Oliver Oakes amid Alpine shake-up

Oliver Oakes Resigns as Alpine Team Principal Amid Driver Line-Up Shake-Up

In a move that sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, Oliver Oakes, the once-promising team principal of Alpine, stepped down from his role with immediate effect on Tuesday. The news comes as Alpine prepares for a shake-up in its driver line-up, with Jack Doohan being replaced by Franco Colapinto for at least five races—a decision tied to a loan agreement made earlier this year.

Speculation of Internal Disagreements Debunked

The timing of Oakes' resignation immediately led to speculation about internal disagreements, with many pointing to a possible rift between Oakes and Alpine's high-profile executive advisor Flavio Briatore. However, Briatore has firmly shut down the rumors, insisting that the decision was unrelated to any conflicts within the team.

In an official statement released through Alpine's social channels on Wednesday, Oakes addressed his departure, citing personal reasons for the sudden move.

“It is a personal decision for me to step down,” Oakes said. “Flavio has been like a father to me, nothing but supportive since I took the role, as well as giving me the opportunity. Everyone is in place for 2026 and where the dream deserves to be.”

The 37-year-old also expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness for future campaigns, leaving the impression of an amicable split despite the unexpected timing.

Briatore Issues Clarifying Statement

Following rapid speculation in the media, Briatore also released a clarifying statement, emphasizing the strength of his relationship with Oakes and addressing the “incorrect” reports suggesting internal strife.

“A lot has been said in the past 24 hours incorrectly associating the decision of Oli resigning to an alleged disagreement, or that we shared different views,” Briatore stated. “This is completely false and far from the truth.

“Me and Oli have a very good relationship and had long-term ambitions to drive this team forward together. We respect Oli's request to resign and have therefore accepted his resignation. The reasons are not related to the team and are of a personal nature.”

Franco Colapinto Replaces Jack Doohan as Alpine’s Second Driver

Oakes' departure coincides with a significant change in Alpine’s driver line-up. The team announced on Tuesday that Franco Colapinto would replace Jack Doohan as Alpine’s second driver for the next five races. The swap has been the subject of growing scrutiny, with Oakes previously fielding numerous questions about Doohan’s role during preseason testing and the Miami Grand Prix weekend.

The 20-year-old Colapinto, who joined Alpine on a loan deal from Williams this January—a deal brokered by Briatore—will make his debut at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola next weekend.

Briatore to Assume Greater Responsibility

Briatore is now set to take on Oakes' responsibilities in addition to his role as executive advisor. While this transition comes at a critical juncture for the team, Briatore reaffirmed his commitment to Alpine’s long-term vision.

“I will continue to be more and more involved with the team, together with the strong management we already have in place,” Briatore added. “We will work hard on improving our position this season and preparing for 2026.”

A Pivotal Chapter for Alpine

As Alpine presses forward, the departure of Oakes and the introduction of Colapinto mark a pivotal chapter in the team's racing ambitions, with all eyes now fixed on their ability to maintain focus and forward momentum.

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