Briatore Denies Disagreement Behind Oakes' Sudden Alpine Exit

Flavio Briatore, Alpine's executive advisor, has firmly denied reports that Oliver Oakes' resignation as team principal was due to a disagreement over the team's recent decision to replace Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto for several races. Both Briatore and Oakes released statements emphasizing that Oakes' departure was a personal decision and not related to internal team conflicts or differing views on driver selection. Briatore described his relationship with Oakes as supportive and stated they had long-term ambitions to advance the team together. He will temporarily assume Oakes' responsibilities while Alpine's existing management continues preparations for the upcoming seasons. The timing of Oakes' resignation, coinciding with the driver change, had sparked speculation of a rift, but both parties have categorically dismissed these claims. The team remains focused on improving this season and building towards 2026.