Flavio Briatore has dismissed claims that Oliver Oakes decided to step down from his role leading Alpine‘s Formula 1 team over the decision to demote Jack Doohan.
Alpine has commanded the headlines over the last 24 hours as Oakes tendering his resignation preceded the news that Doohan has lost his seat to Franco Colapinto.
Briatore, who returned to Alpine as an Executive Advisor last June, was known to have headed the organisation’s successful attempt to prise Colapinto from Williams.
Meanwhile, Oakes had expressed a public disdain towards the persistent speculation that had overshadowed the beginning of Doohan’s rookie campaign in the sport.
But although the timing suggested that the two events might have been interlinked, Briatore, who has assumed Oakes’ responsibilities, has denied that to be the case.
“A lot has been said in the past 24 hours, incorrectly associating the decision of Oli resigning to an alleged disagreement, or that we shared different views. This is completely false and far from the truth,” Briatore penned in an Alpine statement.
“Me and Oli have a very good relationship and had long-term ambitions to drive this team forward together.
“We accept Oli’s request to resign and have therefore accepted his resignation.
“The reasons are not related to the team and are of a personal nature.
“I will continue to be more and more involved with the team, together with the strong management we already have in place.
“We will work hard on improving our position this season and preparing for 2026.”
Oakes indebted to Briatore
Oakes concurred with Briatore’s sentiment as he expressed that the charismatic Italian, 75, had served as a “father” figure during his stint at the helm since July 2024.
“It’s been a privilege to lead everyone at Enstone, what a team, what a place,” Oakes addressed.
“It is a personal decision to for me to step down. Flavio has been like a father to me, nothing but supportive since I took the role, as well as giving me the opportunity.
“Everyone is in place for 2026 and where this dream deserve to be. I believe in Enstone.”
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