Flavio Briatore has issued a strong denial of reports suggesting his growing influence at Alpine was behind the unexpected resignation of team principal Oliver Oakes, insisting that the pair remain on excellent terms.
Oakes stepped down following the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, with Briatore temporarily assuming control as the team prepares for a critical stretch of the season.
Oakes joined the Enstone-based squad midway through 2024 and was seen as a key piece in Alpine’s long-term rebuilding strategy.
His sudden exit came at a pivotal moment, with Alpine also confirming a five-race switch in its driver line-up — replacing Jack Doohan with reserve driver Franco Colapinto starting at the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola.
The timing of the personnel shakeup prompted widespread speculation that Oakes was frustrated with Briatore’s growing decision-making power, particularly over the driver change.
However, Briatore made clear in a joint social media statement with the team that such rumours were entirely unfounded.
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“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. This is completely false and far from the truth,” Briatore stated.
“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.”
Alpine and Briatore focus shifts to 2026
Oakes also released a heartfelt message to Alpine staff via the team’s Instagram post, praising his time with the organisation and offering gratitude to Briatore for his backing.
“It’s been a privilege to lead everyone at Enstone; what a team, what a place,” Oakes said.
“It is a personal decision for me to step down. 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 this dream deserves to be! I believe in Enstone.”
Alpine’s technical structure remains intact, with David Sanchez (Executive Technical Director), Dave Greenwood (Racing Director), and Richard Lockwood (Sporting Director) continuing to lead the day-to-day operations.
With Briatore now temporarily overseeing the team’s strategic direction, Alpine is expected to continue fine-tuning its 2026 project, especially amid F1’s looming regulation changes.
“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.”
Despite a challenging start to 2025, which saw Doohan struggle for consistency and the team fail to maximise its car’s potential, Alpine remains optimistic.
Pierre Gasly’s solid midfield form and the addition of Colapinto, who brings both commercial value and race pace, signals a push to strengthen both performance and visibility.
As Alpine regroups under new leadership, the focus now turns to stability, competitive consistency, and building toward a major reset for the 2026 season.
