Who is Alpine's new team principal Oliver Oakes? - Explained

Alpine F1 Team has officially announced Oliver Oakes as their new Team Principal, succeeding Bruno Famin. Famin will step down at the end of August to focus on broader motorsport activities for the Renault Group. The appointment of Oakes marks a significant shift in leadership for the team, striving to regain competitiveness in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.

Oakes, a former racing driver and member of the Red Bull Young Driver Programme, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. After a career in karting and single-seater racing during the 2000s, Oakes transitioned into management, where he made a notable impact by founding Hitech Grand Prix in 2015. The team, which competes in Formula 2 and Formula 3, has grown under his leadership, showcasing his ability to guide racing teams to success.

At just 36 years old, Oakes becomes the second youngest Team Principal in Formula 1 history, a testament to his rapid rise in the motorsport world. His appointment is part of a broader strategy by Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo and Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore to infuse new energy and vision into the Alpine F1 Team.

“I am confident”, says Oliver Oakes

In his first public statement as Team Principal, Oakes expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and outlined his vision for the team's future. “The team has talented people and excellent resources at its core, and I am confident that we can accomplish a great deal together during the remainder of this season and the longer term. I look forward to getting started after the summer break,” Oakes said, reflecting his optimism and determination to drive the team forward.

Luca de Meo also expressed confidence in Oakes' ability to lead Alpine towards future success. He highlighted Oakes’ enthusiasm, energy, and passion for racing as key qualities that will be instrumental in realizing the team's goals.

Flavio Briatore, who has been closely involved in the team's recent developments, praised Oakes for his leadership skills and successful track record in motorsport. Briatore’s endorsement further solidifies the team's belief that Oakes is the right person to steer Alpine towards a more competitive future in Formula 1.