Alpine F1 Team Moves to Appoint New Team Principal Post-Oakes Departure
The Alpine Formula 1 team is progressing towards appointing a full-time team principal following the unexpected exit of Oliver Oakes, effective May 1. Oakes, brought on board last summer from Hitech GP by Flavio Briatore, resigned shortly after his brother, William, faced legal issues related to significant financial matters.
Since Oakes’ departure, Briatore has assumed the role temporarily, although strictly as a contractor to Renault, Alpine’s parent company. Racing director Dave Greenwood has been designated as the official team representative; however, Briatore addressed the press at the recent team briefing ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix.
“We’re looking for a replacement team principal,” Briatore stated. “For the moment, nothing has changed. I feel sorry for Ollie. He was a competent team principal, and it’s known he resigned for personal reasons.”
On the qualities sought in a new principal, Briatore emphasized the importance of finding a candidate who is not only skilled but also aligned with the team’s objectives. “There’s a lot of talent out there; we are looking for someone good, who understands the job and wants to be part of our journey with Alpine,” he remarked, acknowledging interest from potential candidates.
Briatore noted his intention to avoid rushed decisions, saying, “I’m prepared to take some time. But when we decide on our new team manager, we’ll inform you promptly.”
Former team principal Oakes has remained relatively low-key and was reportedly seen during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.
As the situation evolves, Alpine’s search for Oakes’ successor continues amidst the backdrop of the team’s competitive aspirations in the 2023 Formula 1 season.
