Alpine has named former Hitech GP boss Oliver Oakes as its new F1 team principal, as he will take charge with immediate effect.
Having announced the departure of Bruno Famin from the team principal role to head Motorsport activities at Viry-Chatillon, Groupe Renault has confirmed the hiring of former Hitech GP boss Oakes as the new F1 team principal of Alpine team.
The rumours of him joining the team was evident during the Belgian GP weekend after his recent moves around his role at Hitech GP. He was formally introduced to the base at Enstone on Tuesday, with the official announcement coming on Wednesday.
He has done well for Hitech GP in the junior categories and was linked to a F1 move when the British outfit were actively looking to join the grid from 2026 onward. Since it didn’t materialise, Oakes has found his way to become a team boss at Alpine.
With the French outfit trying to go the customer way, it will be interesting to see if Hitech GP aligns itself with Alpine going forward. Oakes has already started his work at Enstone and will have his first official presence in a grand prix weekend in Zandvoort.
He will report to Groupe Renault chief Luca de Meo.
Luca de Meo: “It is a pleasure to welcome Oli to the team and for him to become one of the youngest Team Principals that this sport has ever seen. This team is being built for future success and this is highlighted by Oli’s appointment in a senior role. We look forward to harnessing his enthusiasm, energy and passion for racing and realising that mindset across the entire team.”
Flavio Briatore: “I am delighted that we have been able to recruit Oli Oakes for our Formula 1 project. Oli is highly talented with a great record of leadership and success in racing. His move into this role is a great example of the strength and belief we have in our team and by young, upcoming people, and I’m excited to work closely with him with a joint focus on moving up the grid and winning races.”
Oliver Oakes: “I am extremely grateful to Luca de Meo and Flavio Briatore for this opportunity to lead BWT Alpine F1 Team back to competitiveness. 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.”
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