Briatore sets record straight on Oakes’ Alpine departure

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Flavio Briatore, executive advisor for Alpine F1, has firmly dismissed speculation that a falling out with outgoing team principal Oliver Oakes prompted the latter’s abrupt resignation on Tuesday.

Oakes, who joined the team in July 2024 to replace Bruno Famin, stepped down just six races into the 2025 season, leaving Briatore to assume his duties.

The sudden exit has sparked rumors, particularly as it aligns with Alpine’s decision to replace Jack Doohan with reserve driver Franco Colapinto for the next five races, a move some suggested caused friction between the two men.

In a joint Instagram post with Alpine, Briatore addressed the speculation head-on, rejecting claims of discord.

“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.

Read also: Colapinto replaces Doohan at Alpine for next five races

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.”

Oakes’ Departure and Alpine’s Future

Oakes, in a message directed to the Enstone staff included in the same social media post, expressed gratitude and confidence in the team’s future.

“It's been a privilege to lead everyone at Enstone; what a team, what a place,” he 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.”

Briatore, now steering the team alongside technical leaders like David Sanchez, Dave Greenwood, and Richard Lockwood, reaffirmed his commitment to Alpine’s ambitions.

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

Alpine navigates this transition, Briatore’s comments aim to quell rumors and refocus attention on the team’s goals, while Oakes’ departure marks the end of a brief but impactful tenure at Enstone.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.