Since the appointment of Oliver Oakes as team boss in August 2024, Alpine has undergone significant changes. Oakes was brought in during a challenging period for the French racing stable, in an attempt to break the sporting malaise. A new course was set, with a familiar but controversial figure behind the scenes: Flavio Briatore. Oakes explains how someone like Briatore – an eccentric of the old school – is exactly what Alpine needs.
The reappointment of Flavio Briatore was a somewhat controversial choice. The flamboyant Italian had achieved successes in the past with Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso. During those periods, Alpine was known respectively as Benetton and later Renault. However, due to his role in the crashgate scandal, he was banned from Formula 1 for a long time. Yet, Renault CEO Luca de Meo brought him back to Enstone in 2024, in the role of senior advisor.
Gradually, Briatore returned to the forefront: first through outspoken interviews in the media, recently through his notable contribution to Drive to Survive. Team boss Oliver Oakes explained in an interview what role Briatore exactly plays within the team. “Formula 1 is no longer just about what happens on the track,” said Oakes. “The role of a team boss goes beyond the garage – you are constantly in a political arena.”
Political Games
Oakes quickly encountered the political reality of the sport. He recently engaged in discussions with other team leaders about the rule changes for 2026 and a potential return to the V10 engine. Although that proposal has now been swept off the table, Oakes does not rule out further exploration. “It’s a topic worth discussing,” he explained. “Look at how big and heavy the cars have become, how complex the hybrid systems are. Is that really necessary? Is that what fans want? Is it good for the sport?”
“It’s interesting to see how people can steer these discussions with their own interests in mind, not necessarily with the interest of the sport in mind,” Oakes continued. “That’s also the fun of Formula 1. It’s not just about racing, it’s also about politics and strategic choices that defend your team’s interests.”
Father Figure
The 37-year-old Brit is grateful that Briatore can support him in these political games. The collaboration with the 75-year-old Italian turns out to be surprisingly warm and personal. “I really see Briatore as a father figure in the paddock,” said Oakes. “We spend a lot of time together. He is someone you can talk to well, but also someone who sees through the nonsense. He likes to keep it simple: we are here to race.”
The fact that Briatore has previously won titles with the team would give the entire team confidence and direction. “He is someone who takes the fate of the team personally, as if it were his own team. That’s what I try to do too. The beauty of this sport is that it’s not just about speed,” Oakes concluded. “It’s about vision, strategy, and the will to win. And that’s exactly what we’re trying to get back on track with Alpine.”
