Alpine confirms Steve Nielsen as new managing director

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Alpine F1 has confirmed the appointment of long-time Formula 1 veteran Steve Nielsen as its new Managing Director, in a move designed to stabilise and revitalise the team’s operations following recent leadership changes.

Nielsen, who has enjoyed a decades-long career across both team and regulatory sides of the sport, will take up his new post on September 1, just ahead of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza.

He will oversee the day-to-day running of the team and report directly to Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore, who retains overarching responsibility for the project.

The appointment comes after a prolonged search for a senior figure to fill the operational void left by Oli Oakes, who departed the Team Principal role in May.

A Familiar Face Returns

Nielsen's new role at Alpine marks a homecoming of sorts. The Briton has deep ties to the Enstone-based squad, having served in multiple capacities under its former identities – Benetton, Renault, and Lotus – including a key stint as Sporting Director during the team’s World Championship-winning campaigns in 2005 and 2006.

Dave Greenwood, Alpine's racing director, in conversation with Steve Nielsen in Bahrain earlier this year.

His vast experience spans both team and governance roles. In recent years, Nielsen worked as Chief Sporting Officer at Formula 1, following a similar role at the FIA. He also brings with him team-side experience from a wide range of organisations, including Tyrrell, Arrows, Honda, and Toro Rosso.

Nielsen’s long-standing relationship with Flavio Briatore, dating back decades, is believed to have played a pivotal role in sealing the deal after weeks of discussions.

Strengthening the Technical Ranks

In addition to Nielsen’s appointment, Alpine also confirmed another key recruitment: Kris Midgley has joined as Head of Aerodynamic Development, reporting to Executive Technical Director David Sanchez.

Midgley is another returning figure to the Enstone team, having worked there between 2007 and 2013. Most recently, he was Principal Aerodynamicist at Ferrari, and brings with him significant experience from the Scuderia’s development programs.

Read also: Alpine exploring surprise in-season move for Bottas

These moves are part of Alpine’s wider efforts to reset and refocus as it languishes at the bottom of the Constructors’ Championship. The team has scored just 11 points so far this season and is banking on a technical and leadership overhaul ahead of its switch to Mercedes power units in 2026.

By bringing in seasoned professionals with a deep understanding of both the sport and the Enstone operation, Alpine is hoping to steer its struggling campaign back on course — and lay the groundwork for a more competitive future.

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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.