Changes like replacing a driver and losing a team principal only six races into an F1 season typically don`t signal a team`s success. But does this truly mean Alpine is in crisis?
Oliver Oakes` sudden departure as team boss on Tuesday occurred shortly before Alpine officially announced the widely rumored replacement of Jack Doohan by Franco Colapinto for the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Although it initially seemed these two events might be connected, reports suggest they aren`t. This lack of connection doesn`t offer much comfort for a team arguably known for its instability in recent years.
Following these developments, Sky Sports F1 analyst Karun Chandhok and reporter Craig Slater discussed the situation in a special segment of The F1 Show.
Understanding Alpine`s Unusual Driver Rotation
Even though F1 media widely reported Jack Doohan`s replacement by Franco Colapinto after the Miami Grand Prix, Alpine`s official announcement still contained a surprising element.
The surprise was how the change was framed: a `rotation`, with Colapinto confirmed only for five races alongside Pierre Gasly in the 2025 season.
This kind of short-term driver deal is uncommon in recent F1 history, and the team`s decision to publicly state its temporary nature is particularly noteworthy.
Alpine explains this decision by stating that they want to evaluate their young drivers ahead of the significant rule changes next year, which they hope will allow them to improve their position substantially and ensure the best driver pairing for 2026.
Reporter Craig Slater commented that Alpine is optimistic about having a competitive car next season, noting their strong chassis and engine.
“They might even be among four teams potentially competing for the championship next year. Some speculate about Max Verstappen joining Alpine, though that appears highly unlikely at present,” he added.
“They have faith in Gasly and aim to assess the optimal driver line-up for 2026.”
Is Money the Driving Factor Behind Colapinto`s Deal?
A more cynical perspective suggests the five-race agreement is primarily financially motivated.
Colapinto impressed during a brief nine-race stint with Williams late last season, rapidly gaining substantial sponsorship and support from his home country, Argentina.
Beyond his potential as a driver, his appeal in the South American market likely influenced Alpine executive director Flavio Briatore`s decision to reportedly pay €4.5m (£3.8m) to secure Colapinto from Williams on a five-year loan.
Slater stated, “My understanding is that financial considerations significantly contributed to him replacing Doohan.”
“The potential revenue Alpine could generate is quite substantial. They reportedly paid Williams a fee for this five-year loan deal, implying a need to recover that investment.”
“The limited five-race duration is unusual. It`s likely anticipated that if he performs adequately, he will continue for the remainder of the year.”
This five-race agreement is expected to unlock profitable sponsorship opportunities, allowing Alpine to confirm the anticipated funds will materialize.
Was Doohan Unlucky, and What Does This Mean for His F1 Future?
Jack Doohan`s position seemed uncertain even before his debut F1 season, with Alpine`s signing of Colapinto as a reserve driver in January fueling speculation about the Australian`s future.
Given this context, he faced immense pressure to perform. Despite showing moments of speed, two significant crashes and a retirement in Miami undermined his position.
Although the team`s description of the change as a `rotation` theoretically leaves the door open for Doohan`s return, it is suspected that the next chance might instead go to Alpine`s other young reserve driver, Paul Aron.
Slater commented, “They have evaluated Jack Doohan. While a return isn`t entirely ruled out, it seems quite improbable for him to get back into the car.”
“They also have Paul Aron and Colapinto. Both Aron and Colapinto have completed four tests this season using 2023 equipment, allowing Alpine to assess their abilities and readiness for a potential drive next year.”
Karun Chandhok suggests that Doohan`s patient handling of this difficult situation stems from Alpine potentially still being his best chance to return to F1.
Chandhok observed, “With Cadillac entering F1, there`s much discussion about the driver market, but I haven`t heard Jack being considered a top candidate by anyone else.”
“His most promising opportunity, I believe, would be if Colapinto doesn`t perform well, leading them to potentially offer Jack significant testing opportunities to further develop his skills.”
Could There Be a Deeper Reason Behind Oakes` Resignation?
The timing of Oakes` departure initially led many to assume he resigned because he disagreed with Flavio Briatore`s decision regarding the driver change. However, this doesn`t appear to be the reason.
Briatore issued a statement claiming their working relationship was strong and that Oakes resigned for `personal` reasons, a claim Oakes himself supported in a separate statement.
Speaking just before these statements were released on social media, Chandhok expressed his doubts about the situation.
He stated, “I suspect something is amiss. I believe there are deeper issues within Alpine than what is being revealed.”
“He didn`t resign solely because of a driver choice. He wouldn`t give up the opportunity to be one of only ten F1 team principals just over who occupies the second car seat.”
“Therefore, in my view, there are underlying matters here that haven`t been disclosed.”
Slater added, “All signs I`ve received indicate his departure isn`t directly tied to the driver change. It`s likely related to something else.”
“Perhaps this event provided a convenient time for him to step down without attracting undue attention.”
Is Alpine Experiencing Turmoil?
Alpine has faced considerable upheaval recently, with Oakes being the fourth team principal to leave since the beginning of 2021.
Numerous other key personnel in technical and management roles have also departed. Furthermore, the team mismanaged a potentially strong driver pairing with Fernando Alonso and Oscar Piastri, allowing both to leave after the 2022 season.
Despite this ongoing instability, Alpine secured a significant investment of €200m (£170m) from a group of investors, including notable figures like Hollywood actors and sports personalities such as Rory McIlroy and Anthony Joshua.
The 2025 season will be the last year the Renault Group-owned team competes as a factory team, as Renault announced last year they would not produce engines for F1 from 2026 onwards.
Chandhok questioned if the team`s recent actions indicate they might be preparing to capitalize on F1`s current popularity by selling the team soon.
He asked, “What is their objective? They are no longer a full factory team. I suppose they are trying to promote the Alpine brand, but it`s not a mass-market car.”
“Justifying the costs with sales numbers is difficult. Are they simply trying to inflate their valuation? If so, perhaps selling now would make sense.”
“If they`re focused on valuation, why haven`t they sold? Many aspects of this situation still don`t seem logical to me. I don`t understand their overarching strategy.”
Slater concluded, “Perhaps something positive will emerge from all this upheaval for Alpine. However, for now, they need to stabilize and move past this period of change.”
