Team boss Oakes makes shock exit from Alpine

The director of the Alpine team, Oliver Oakes, resigned from his position with immediate effect, with Flavio Briatore in his responsibilities.

Oakes was only appointed director of the Alpine team last summer, starting to work in August and attending for the first time a race in his role in Zandvoort after the end of the middle of the season. The British had to speak with the media on Sunday night after the Miami Grand Prix, but that session was canceled due to a change of travel plans, with the general belief that he should avoid facing multiple questions about the possible driver line.

Alpine has been resisting increasing speculation about Jack Doohan being replaced by Franco Colapinto, and it is understood that the Argentine is being considered for a promotion of the next race in Icola. Okes declared Friday that the pilots are constantly being evaluated, but emhasized that, as things were, Doohan would be competing alongside Pierre Gasly in Isola.

While the approach has focused on the driver’s line, Alpine is now going on to his fifth team director in the last four years. The team did not give a reason for the resignation of Okes.

“The BWT Alpine Formula One team announces that Oliver Oakes has renounced his role as team director,” said a team statement.

“The team has accepted its resignation with immediate effect.

“As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as an executive advisor and will also cover the tasks carried out by Oliver Oakes.

“The team wishes to thank Oliver for his efforts since he joined last summer and for his contribution to help the team secure the sixth place in the 2024 Construction Championship.”