Flavio Briatore takes aim at 'false' Alpine F1 claims after shock team boss exit

Alpine executive director Flavio Briatore has hit out at claims that Oliver Oakes left his role as team principal due to a disagreement.

The Enstone-based squad communicated on Tuesday evening that Oakes had departed his position as team boss.

His exit came just hours before Jack Doohan was removed from one of its race seats and replaced by Franco Colapinto with immediate effect.

It led to speculation that Oakes' exit came amid a dispute with Briatore regarding the direction of the team - a rumour the latter has put to bed.

“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,” read a statement from Briatore. 

“This is completely false and far from the truth.

“Me and Oli have a very good relationship and had long-term ambitions to drive this team forward together. 

“We respect 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 issues first statement after Alpine F1 exit

Oakes took over the team principal role in September last year, becoming the youngest team boss on the grid.

The Briton released his own statement, addressing his departure.

“It’s been a privilege to lead everyone at Enstone, what a team, what a place,” he said.

It is a personal decision 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 deserves to be. I believe in Enstone.”