Significant changes have occurred at Alpine F1 just six races into the season, sparking debate about the team`s current state. The unexpected resignation of Team Principal Oliver Oakes coincided with the confirmation that Franco Colapinto would replace Jack Doohan for the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
While the team indicates these events are not directly linked, the timing adds another layer of uncertainty to a squad that has faced considerable instability over the past decade.
Exploring Alpine`s Driver Strategy
Alpine`s decision to announce Franco Colapinto as Pierre Gasly`s teammate for only the next five races of the 2025 season was presented as a `rotation`. This short-term arrangement is unusual in Formula 1.
The team explains this strategy is intended to evaluate their pool of young drivers ahead of the significant regulatory changes in 2026. They aim to identify the strongest pairing for a season they reportedly believe could see them compete near the front of the grid.
The Financial Dimension
A more pragmatic perspective suggests financial factors heavily influenced the move to bring in Colapinto. Colapinto has garnered significant sponsorship and popularity, particularly from Argentina.
Reports indicate Alpine paid a fee to Williams for a five-year loan deal for Colapinto. It is speculated that bringing him into a race seat, even temporarily, is linked to triggering lucrative sponsorship agreements, helping Alpine recoup their investment and secure expected funding.
Jack Doohan`s Situation
Jack Doohan`s position at Alpine was reportedly under scrutiny even before the season began. Despite showing glimpses of pace, he faced pressure and experienced notable crashes. While the `rotation` concept theoretically leaves the door open for his return, the possibility appears remote.
Alpine is also evaluating another young driver, Paul Aron, who, along with Colapinto, has participated in tests. Experts suggest that remaining within the Alpine structure, potentially through further testing opportunities if Colapinto doesn`t perform as expected, may be Doohan`s best chance to return to an F1 seat.
Questions Around Oakes` Departure
Oliver Oakes` resignation timing fueled speculation of a link to the driver change. However, both Oakes and Alpine executive director Flavio Briatore denied this, stating personal reasons were behind the departure and emphasizing their positive working relationship.
Despite these denials, some observers remain skeptical, suggesting there may be undisclosed reasons for Oakes leaving a prominent role in Formula 1. The resignation occurring amidst other team shifts raises questions about the underlying dynamics within Alpine.
Is Alpine Facing Turmoil?
The recent events add to Alpine`s track record of instability. Oliver Oakes is the fourth team principal to leave since 2021, following other departures from technical and executive roles. The team also notably lost talents like Fernando Alonso and Oscar Piastri in the past.
This ongoing flux exists despite the team attracting significant investment. With Renault set to cease manufacturing engines for F1 after 2025, Alpine`s long-term strategic direction is unclear. Some analysts ponder whether the team`s recent actions are aimed at increasing its valuation for a potential sale, capitalizing on F1`s current popularity, rather than solely focusing on championship aspirations. The constant changes leave observers questioning the team`s overall strategy and stability.
