Significant personnel shifts and driver decisions early in an F1 season don`t typically signal a team`s smooth operation. The recent events at Alpine, specifically a driver change for practice sessions and a prominent figure`s resignation from *his* role, have fueled speculation.
Adding to the intrigue, Oliver Oakes resigned from his position as team principal of Hitech Pulse-Eight (an F2/F3 team) unexpectedly, shortly before Alpine confirmed the widely anticipated news that Franco Colapinto would participate in upcoming Friday practice sessions, replacing reserve driver Jack Doohan.
While initial speculation linked Oakes`s resignation directly to the driver change at Alpine, both he and Alpine executive director Flavio Briatore (recently returned as an advisor) released statements denying a connection and citing personal reasons for Oakes`s departure from his role. However, the timing of these separate events has highlighted the instability that has arguably characterized Alpine (and its Renault predecessor) over the past decade.
Following these developments, commentators Karun Chandhok and Craig Slater discussed the situation, offering analysis on its potential implications.
Alpine`s Unusual Driver `Rotation` Approach
Although rumors circulated extensively before the Miami Grand Prix, Alpine`s announcement regarding the driver change for Friday practice still contained an element of surprise. The change was officially framed as a `rotation`, with Colapinto confirmed for the next five FP1 sessions of the 2024 season, starting with the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Making the temporary nature of this arrangement public is highly unusual in recent Formula 1 history.
Alpine explained their rationale: with significant regulation changes expected for 2026 (which they hope will allow them to contend at the front), they want to evaluate their young driver talent now to ensure they have the strongest possible lineup for the future.
Craig Slater noted Alpine`s optimism about their potential for 2026, stating, “Alpine also think they are going to have a good package next season… They believe in Gasly and want to evaluate the best driver pairing for 2026.”
Does the Colapinto Deal Have a Financial Motivation?
A more skeptical perspective suggests the five-session deal for Colapinto is primarily financially driven. Colapinto impressed during test outings and reserve duties last season and has significant sponsorship backing and popularity from Argentina.
Beyond his driving talent, his appeal in the South American market likely played a role in Alpine`s decision. Reports suggested Alpine paid a fee to Williams (where Colapinto previously had ties) to secure his services, even if temporarily.
Slater commented, “What I`m learning is that the financial compulsions in all of this have played a big part in him being swapped in for Doohan.” He added that the potential financial gains for Alpine are significant, and the short-term nature might be tied to ensuring the expected funds materialize. The expectation is that if Colapinto performs adequately, he will likely continue in the reserve/FP1 role for the remainder of the year.
Jack Doohan`s Situation and F1 Future
Reserve driver Jack Doohan`s position appeared uncertain even before the season began, especially after Alpine signed Colapinto as another reserve driver in January. This put pressure on Doohan during his reserve duties and test outings.
While Alpine presents the change as a `rotation`, theoretically leaving the door open for Doohan`s return to the FP1 seat, it`s suspected that another young reserve driver, Paul Aron, might be considered for future opportunities.
Slater felt it would be “pretty far-fetched” for Doohan to return to the FP1 role soon, noting that both Aron and Colapinto have undertaken recent testing with the team.
Karun Chandhok observed that Doohan`s patient handling of the situation likely stems from Alpine still representing his most viable route back to an F1 grid position. Chandhok believes Doohan`s best chance relies on Colapinto not performing well, potentially leading to more testing opportunities for Doohan to improve.
Is There More to Oakes`s Resignation?
The timing of Oliver Oakes`s resignation from his role at Hitech Pulse-Eight naturally led to assumptions that it was linked to the driver decision at Alpine. However, as mentioned, both parties denied this, stating it was for personal reasons.
Despite the official stance, Chandhok expressed skepticism, saying, “I smell a rat. I think there`s something more rotten in the state of Alpine.” He argued that a figure like Oakes wouldn`t resign from a top motorsport management role solely over a reserve driver decision, suggesting deeper, undisclosed issues.
Slater agreed, indicating that his sources also suggest Oakes`s departure was unrelated to the driver swap, possibly being “something else” and perhaps timed conveniently amidst other news.
Is Alpine Experiencing Turmoil?
Drama is not new to Alpine. Oliver Oakes`s resignation (from Hitech) came amid a period where Alpine has seen frequent leadership changes. The team has also faced criticism for losing promising drivers like Fernando Alonso and Oscar Piastri in the past.
Despite this history of instability, Alpine successfully attracted significant investment from high-profile individuals. However, questions remain about the team`s strategic direction. Renault will continue as a works team building its own engines for 2026, but the article prompted discussion about the team`s long-term goals, particularly given the considerable value F1 teams now command.
Chandhok questioned Alpine`s strategy, especially regarding their commitment as a works team given previous engine supply plan cancellations. He pondered if they are primarily focused on increasing the team`s valuation for a potential sale, noting that aspects of their current approach “just don`t add up.”
Slater concluded that while the current situation appears chaotic, it`s possible positive outcomes could emerge. However, for now, the team needs to find stability and move past the recent flux.
Gilbert Pendleton