Steve Nielsen is now at the centre of one of the most intriguing leadership changes of the 2025 Formula 1 season, as the Alpine F1 team attempts to steady its course during a turbulent campaign.
The decision to bring in Nielsen as managing director, confirmed by the team on Friday, has sent ripples through the paddock—and raised hopes among fans that Alpine can regain the competitive spark that once brought them championship glory.
Nielsen, who officially begins his tenure on September 1 just before the 2025 Italian Grand Prix, will oversee Alpine’s day-to-day operations at a critical time.
He will report directly to Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore, a familiar face from the team’s most successful years as Benetton and Renault. The move sees Nielsen return to a squad where he previously helped secure back-to-back world championships in 2005 and 2006 with Fernando Alonso.
As the team languishes at the bottom of the constructors’ standings with only 11 points from 11 races, the urgency for a turnaround has never been greater. The departure of Oliver Oakes after Miami left a leadership vacuum, but Alpine’s management, led by Briatore, acted quickly to install a figure with decades of experience across Formula 1.
A new era begins as Alpine bets on experience and fresh thinking
Nielsen is no stranger to the challenges of running a Formula 1 team. His CV includes stints with legendary names such as Team Lotus, Tyrrell, Honda, Arrows, Caterham, Toro Rosso and Williams, as well as high-profile roles with the FIA and Formula One Management.
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He played a pivotal part in the sport’s return to action during the pandemic, earning widespread respect for his steady approach and operational expertise.
This is not just about one hire. Alpine’s shakeup under Briatore has also seen the recruitment of Kris Midgley as Head of Aerodynamic Development.
Midgley returns to Enstone after years at Ferrari, where he served as principal aerodynamicist, and will now report to Executive Technical Director David Sanchez. The technical department is being strengthened just as Formula 1 prepares for a new set of regulations in 2026, presenting a rare opportunity for teams to make a leap forward.
The commercial side is also receiving attention. Guy Martin, formerly Head of Sponsorships Europe at Visa, steps in as Alpine’s new Global Marketing Director. With a background that includes partnerships with top-tier sports, entertainment, and motorsport properties, Martin’s arrival signals a renewed push to connect with fans and sponsors alike.
Nielsen’s appointment is seen by many in the paddock as a move to restore stability and direction at Enstone. With his championship-winning credentials and close ties to Briatore, he brings a sense of familiarity and trust at a time when Alpine need it most. The team made clear that “Nielsen will oversee the day-to-day running of the team, reporting into Briatore.”
Alpine leadership bets on proven figures to reverse slump
While Alpine’s on-track results have lagged, these new appointments underline a determination to build for the future. Nielsen, Midgley, and Martin all return to familiar territory, with the challenge of lifting the French manufacturer from its current struggles and preparing for the next chapter under new regulations.
Alpine’s strategy is not just to steady the ship, but to lay the foundations for long-term success. Nielsen’s deep operational knowledge, Midgley’s aerodynamic expertise, and Martin’s commercial vision give the team fresh resources to compete with F1’s top squads.
For now, Alpine supporters will be hoping that these sweeping changes—anchored by the return of a paddock veteran—can turn potential into points. All eyes will be on Enstone as Nielsen officially takes charge in September, with expectations high for a new era at one of Formula 1’s most storied teams.
