In a stunning development that shook the Formula 1 paddock, the BWT Alpine F1 Team has announced the unexpected departure of Team Principal Oliver Oakes, merely six races into the 2025 season.
The French outfit confirmed on Tuesday that Oakes, who had only been at the helm since August last year, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect. The timing of this departure, coming just days after the Miami Grand Prix, has raised eyebrows throughout the motorsport community.
The youngest team principal on the current F1 grid
At just 37 years of age, Oakes held the distinction of being the youngest team principal on the current F1 grid. During his brief tenure, he worked alongside the team’s executive advisor, the veteran and controversial figure Flavio Briatore.
In their official statement, the team said: “BWT Alpine Formula One Team announces that Oliver Oakes has resigned from his role as team principal. The team has accepted his resignation with immediate effect.
“As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as executive advisor and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes.
“The team would like to thank Oliver for his efforts since he joined last summer and for his contribution in helping the team secure sixth place in the 2024 constructors’ championship.
“The team will not be making any further comment.”
This latest management upheaval comes at a challenging time for Alpine, who have struggled for performance this season with drivers Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan. The Enstone-based squad currently sits ninth in the constructors’ championship, having failed to make significant progress following several restructuring efforts in recent years.
Will Oakes’ departure from Alpine pose an issue for the team?
Oakes had taken over leadership duties from Bruno Famin less than a year ago as part of Alpine’s broader strategy to reverse its declining fortunes. The abrupt nature of his exit suggests potential internal disagreements about the team’s direction.
With Briatore now assuming the responsibilities previously handled by Oakes, all eyes will be on Alpine’s next moves as they navigate yet another period of organisational transition while attempting to maintain competitive momentum on track.
