Chaotic Changes at Alpine

Briatore takes over at F1 team after principal Oakes' exit and Colapinto replaces Doohan

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LONDON - Alpine's team principal Oliver Oakes has resigned after less than a year in the job, the French Formula One team announced on May 6.

"The team has accepted his resignation with immediate effect," Alpine said in a statement.

The 37-year-old Briton's surprise exit comes only nine months after his appointment as successor to Frenchman Bruno Famin.

"As of today, Flavio Briatore will continue as executive adviser and will also be covering the duties previously performed by Oliver Oakes," the team statement added.

Oakes leaves his role with Alpine ninth of the 10 teams in the constructors' world championship after six races.

"The team would like to thank Oliver for his efforts since he joined last summer and for his contribution in helping the team secure sixth place in the 2024 constructors' championship.

"The team will not be making any further comment," Alpine said.

French driver Pierre Gasly has picked up all of the team's seven points, with Australian Jack Doohan yet to score in his rookie season, costing him his spot.

Doohan's seat has been at risk from Franco Colapinto ever since Alpine signed the Argentinian from Williams over the winter.

Doohan had replaced Esteban Ocon (now with Haas), who claimed Alpine's sole win in Hungary in 2021.