Alpine’s team principal Oliver Oakes has resigned after less than a year in the job and amid news Jack Doohan is set to be replaced, the French Formula 1 team announced on Tuesday.
“The team has accepted his resignation with immediate effect,” Alpine said in a statement.
The 37-year-old Briton’s surprise exit comes only nine months since his appointment as successor to Frenchman Bruno Famin.
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It is widely believed that his sudden, unexpected departure is a response to the team’s decision to axe Doohan, who Oakes was a staunch supporter of.
“As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as executive advisor and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes,” the team statement added.
The Race understands that Briatore’s dealings with drivers has caused friction with Alpine’s management set-up and left Oakes in a “compromised” position.
Oakes leaves his role with Alpine ninth of the 10 teams in the constructors’ world championship after six races.
“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,” Alpine said.
“The team will not be making any further comment.”
French driver Pierre Gasly has picked up all the Enstone-based team’s seven points, with Australian Jack Doohan yet to score in his rookie season.
Doohan’s seat has been at risk from Franco Colapinto ever since Alpine signed the Argentine from Williams over the winter.
Reports suggest Colapinto will be in place instead of Doohan for the upcoming race in Emilia-Romagna next week.