Alpine confirms new Formula 1 team boss: Oliver Oakes to succeed Bruno Famin. In a significant and strategic move, Alpine has announced the appointment of Oliver Oakes as the new head of its Formula 1 team, succeeding Bruno Famin. The confirmation came on Wednesday afternoon and marks a new chapter for the French racing team, with Oakes set to take over after the summer break.
Oliver Oakes, a 36-year-old Briton, brings a fresh perspective and dynamic leadership style to Alpine. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “I am very grateful to Luca de Meo and Flavio Briatore for the opportunity to lead the Alpine team back to competitiveness.”
The team has talented people and excellent resources at its core and I am confident that together we can achieve a lot this season and in the longer term. I am looking forward to getting started after the summer break.
Young but experienced leader
At just 36, Oakes will be the second youngest team principal in Formula One history. However, he compensates for his youth with a wealth of experience in running a racing team. His journey into motorsport management began in 2015 when he founded the Hitech team, which now competes in Formula 2 and Formula 3.
The team has enjoyed significant success under his leadership, demonstrating his ability to develop and manage competitive racing outfits. His move into Formula 1 brings a new set of challenges, but his proven track record suggests that he is more than capable of steering Alpine towards stability and success.
Leadership and vision
Renault CEO Luca de Meo expressed his excitement at Oakes’ appointment and highlighted the potential for future success under his leadership.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Oli to the team and make him one of the youngest team principals this sport has ever seen,” said de Meo.
“This team is being built for future success and this is underlined by Oli’s appointment to a senior role. We look forward to harnessing his enthusiasm, energy and passion for racing and implementing this mindset throughout the team,” he added, highlighting the strategic vision for Alpine’s future.
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Praise from Flavio Briatore
New Special Advisor Flavio Briatore was also full of praise for Oakes, highlighting his talent and leadership.
“Oli is extremely talented and has a proven track record of leadership and success in racing,” said Briatore.
“His move into this role is a great example of the strength and belief we have in our team and in young, up-and-coming people. I look forward to working closely with him as we focus on moving up the grid and winning races together.”
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Pierre Gasly pays tribute to Bruno Famin
Alpine F1 driver Pierre Gasly has paid a heartfelt tribute to outgoing team principal Bruno Famin, recognising his significant contribution to the Enstone outfit during a challenging period. Famin’s departure, announced ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, is the latest in a series of high-profile exits from Alpine’s management structure over the past year.
“Well, first of all I want to thank Bruno,” said Gasly at Spa-Francorchamps following the announcement of Famin’s departure.
“It’s been a really good relationship with him for the time I’ve spent with him in the team. He’s very honest, very transparent.”
Gasly’s words underlined Famin’s integrity and openness, qualities that have been valued by the team.
“He will remain in the Alpine family, obviously in a different role, [but] I just want to thank him for his work and wish him all the best for the future.”
Famin’s legacy and future role
Bruno Famin, a 62-year-old engineer and vice-president of Alpine Motorsports, took charge of the F1 team a year ago following the departure of former team principal Otmar Szafnauer and sporting director Alan Permane. During his tenure, Famin has steered the team through a period of significant upheaval and laid the foundations for future stability and success.
His leadership during this turbulent time was crucial in maintaining the focus and direction of the team.
Famin will now return to his previous role as head of the Viry-Chatillon plant, overseeing all other motorsport activities within the Renault Group. This move will allow him to concentrate on the restructuring of Renault’s engine division.
Financial efficiency considerations have led Renault to consider abandoning its F1 engine plans for 2026 and possibly signing an engine supply agreement with an external partner, most likely Mercedes. This strategic move is aimed at optimising resources and ensuring the company’s competitiveness in the ever-evolving motorsport landscape.
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The challenge ahead for Oakes
Oliver Oakes faces a considerable challenge as he steps into his new role. Leading a Formula One team requires not only strategic acumen, but also the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse group of highly skilled professionals. Oakes’ experience at Hitech demonstrates his ability to manage and develop talent, a skill that will be invaluable as he aims to bring stability and success to Alpine.
The Formula 1 environment is notoriously competitive and demanding. Success is not guaranteed and the pressure to perform is immense. However, Oakes’ track record suggests that he has the resilience and vision to overcome these challenges. His ability to innovate and adapt will be crucial as he works to improve Alpine’s performance on the track.
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Looking forward
As the summer break draws to a close, all eyes will be on Oliver Oakes as he takes on the challenge of leading the team towards its ambitious goals on the Formula One grid. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of Alpine and there is a sense of optimism surrounding his appointment. The support of key figures such as Luca de Meo and Flavio Briatore underlines the confidence in his abilities.
Meanwhile, Bruno Famin’s legacy and ongoing role within Renault ensures his continued influence on the wider motorsport landscape. His experience and expertise will remain a valuable asset to the company as it navigates the complexities of the industry.
The appointment of Oliver Oakes as Alpine’s new Team Principal is a significant and strategic step in rejuvenating the team’s competitiveness. With an extensive background in racing team management and the unwavering support of key figures within the organisation, Oakes is well placed to lead Alpine into a new era of success. As he prepares to take the reins after the summer break, the Formula One community is eager to see the impact his leadership will have on the team’s fortunes.
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With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
