Alpine Appoints Steve Nielsen Managing Director Ahead Italian Grand Prix

Alpine, the Renault-owned Formula One team currently sitting last in the constructors' championship, has appointed Steve Nielsen as managing director to oversee day-to-day operations starting September 1, ahead of the Italian Grand Prix. Nielsen, a highly respected figure in F1, returns to the Enstone-based team where he was previously sporting director during their double championship-winning campaigns in 2005 and 2006 under Flavio Briatore, who continues to have overall charge as executive adviser. Nielsen's extensive experience also includes roles at Caterham, Toro Rosso, Williams, the FIA, and Formula One, bringing valuable leadership during a transitional period for Alpine, which will switch to Mercedes engines next year. The team has also strengthened its technical and commercial departments by hiring Kris Midgley as head of aerodynamic development, returning from Ferrari, and Guy Martin as global marketing director. These changes come after the resignation of former principal Oliver Oakes in May, with Briatore covering his duties until Nielsen's arrival. Alpine aims to leverage this experienced leadership and technical expertise to improve their performance ahead of the new regulation era in 2026.