Flavio Briatore, 75, Takes Over Alpine F1 Team as Internal Turmoil Persists

Flavio Briatore has been appointed as the new team principal of Alpine following the resignation of Oliver Oakes amidst ongoing turmoil within the Formula 1 team.

Briatore, now 75, previously served as an executive adviser to Alpine for a year. Although Oakes held the formal title of team principal, Briatore was significantly influential behind the scenes. A notable decision he made was to shift Alpine’s status from engine manufacturer to becoming a customer of Mercedes starting in 2026.

Oakes, who joined the organization in July, had initially built a rapport with Briatore. However, internal discord concerning the driver lineup, particularly following reports that Jack Doohan would be replaced by Franco Colapinto, led to Oakes’ departure. Briatore had consistently advocated for Colapinto to take Doohan’s position and had even considered replacing him before he began his F1 journey.

On Wednesday, Alpine officially confirmed that Colapinto will join Pierre Gasly for the upcoming five races.

In a statement, Alpine announced, “BWT Alpine Formula 1 team confirms that Oliver Oakes has resigned as team principal. His resignation has been accepted immediately, with Flavio Briatore taking on his responsibilities while continuing in his advisory role.”

The statement also expressed gratitude towards Oakes for his contributions to the team, particularly in achieving sixth place in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship.

Doohan was reportedly informed after the Miami race that he would not compete at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola on May 18. Oakes had to cancel his media session after the race, citing changes to travel arrangements.

Oakes’ exit paves the way for Briatore’s return to a more visible role in Formula 1. In 2009, Briatore resigned as team principal of Renault after being implicated in orchestrating a crash during the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix that benefited his driver Fernando Alonso. Although Briatore has consistently denied any wrongdoing, a French high court later annulled his indefinite ban imposed by the FIA, though it did not exonerate him of involvement.

While Briatore is respected by seasoned figures in the sport, such as Christian Horner and Toto Wolff, there are mixed opinions on his return to a prominent position. It remains uncertain if his role will be temporary or a permanent assignment.