Oliver Oakes Aims to Steer Alpine’s Rebuild Amid Fierce F1 Midfield Battle

DOHA: Just over three months into his tenure as Alpine’s team principal, Oliver Oakes is tackling a challenging rebuilding process for the storied Formula 1 team. At 36, Oakes is the second-youngest team boss in F1 history, following Christian Horner, who took over Red Bull Racing at 32.

Oakes stepped into the role in the wake of extensive staff changes at Alpine, becoming the team’s third principal in 12 months. He replaced Bruno Famin, who transitioned to a full-time role at Alpine’s French headquarters.

Despite the tumultuous leadership changes, Oakes is optimistic. “This is a team with a deep F1 heritage. The recent seasons have been tougher, but there’s a strong sense of positivity now, especially with leadership aligned across myself, Flavio [Briatore], and Luca [de Meo],” he told Gulf Times at the Lusail International Circuit on Friday.

The challenges were apparent when Oakes assumed the role, with Alpine languishing in ninth place in the Constructors’ Championship. While a double podium at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix momentarily boosted the team to sixth, setbacks at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, including Pierre Gasly’s retirement and Esteban Ocon’s disappointing 17th-place finish, saw them drop to seventh.

Currently, Haas leads Alpine by just one point, with the midfield battle set to intensify in the final two races.

In Friday’s Sprint qualifying for the Qatar Grand Prix, Gasly secured eighth for Alpine, while Ocon was eliminated in Q1.

Oakes has made significant decisions in his short time, including a switch to Mercedes power units and gearboxes starting in 2026, marking the end of Alpine’s tenure as a works team. “The decision to step away from being a works team was emotional but strategic. It’s a bold move that signals where we want to go as a team,” he explained.

Another notable change is the promotion of Jack Doohan, who will replace Ocon next season and join Gasly as Alpine’s second driver. The move makes Doohan the second confirmed rookie on the 2025 grid.

Oakes has prioritized stability while gradually making adjustments. “In the short term, I wanted to understand the team and build chemistry. Long-term, our power unit decision reflects our ambition to climb back to the front,” he said.

With two races remaining, Oakes is confident Alpine can reclaim sixth place. “Brazil was a fantastic boost, and it’s clear the car’s performance is improving. Setbacks like Pierre’s issue in Vegas are part of motorsport, but the team’s spirit and hunger to improve are what excite me most,” he added.

The final races will be pivotal as Alpine seeks to end the season on a high note and lay the groundwork for its ambitious future plans.