Flavio Briatore to head Alpine F1: a controversial appointment at Imola
As the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix approaches, Alpine F1 finds itself at the heart of yet another controversy. Flavio Briatore, an iconic and controversial figure in Formula 1, is back at the helm of the team following the resignation of Oliver Oakes. However, his return raises regulatory and ethical questions.
On May 6, 2025, Alpine F1 announced the resignation of its team principal, Oliver Oakes, for personal reasons. Following this, Flavio Briatore, former director of Renault F1 and central figure in the 2008 "Crashgate" scandal, was appointed to take over the management responsibilities. This decision was made despite Briatore's controversial past, who had been banned for life from F1 before this sanction was overturned in 2010.
Briatore, aged 75, was appointed executive advisor by Luca de Meo, CEO of the Renault group, in June 2024. His role includes overseeing the strategic aspects of the team, including talent recruitment and evaluating the current structure.
Regulatory obstacles
Despite his de facto position as the head of the team, Briatore cannot be officially recognized as team principal by the FIA. Indeed, he is not a registered employee of Alpine and does not hold an FIA license, which are required conditions to be recognized as such. Consequently, Dave Greenwood, Alpine's race director, is designated as the official responsible person to the FIA for the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.
A spokesperson for the FIA stated: « Alpine has complied with all regulatory requirements regarding Mr. Oakes' departure and has submitted their updated personnel record. We believe it is up to Alpine to provide an update on their management structure, so we will not comment on a specific person holding a registration certificate. »
A team in search of stability
Alpine F1 is going through a turbulent period. After a series of changes in management and disappointing performances, the team is currently in ninth place in the constructors' championship. The replacement of Jack Doohan with Franco Colapinto for the next five races adds to the uncertainty. Colapinto, a 21-year-old Argentine driver, has been promoted from reserve driver to main driver, a decision reportedly influenced by Briatore.
Briatore denied any tension with Oakes regarding this decision, stating: « Many things have been wrongly said by associating Oli's resignation decision with a presumed disagreement, or that we had different views. This is completely false and far from the truth. »
A controversial rehabilitation
The return of Briatore to Formula 1 is far from unanimous. Although his sanction was lifted, his involvement in the Crashgate remains an indelible stain on his career. However, some figures in the paddock, such as Toto Wolff and Frédéric Vasseur, have expressed their support for his return, emphasizing his experience and knowledge of the sport.
Briatore, for his part, claims he wants to contribute to Alpine's recovery: « I will continue to get more and more involved with the team, with the strong leadership we already have in place. We will work hard to improve our position this season and prepare for 2026. »
A new era for Alpine?
The return of Flavio Briatore marks a turning point for Alpine F1. As the team seeks to regain its former glory, his appointment raises questions about the direction the team will take. The combination of his experience and controversial past could either propel Alpine to new heights or plunge the team into new turbulence. Only time will tell if this bold decision will pay off.
