Formula 1’s 2025 Team Principals: Oliver Oakes

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Pierre Gasly, Formula 1 Alpine, Oliver Oakes

Few figures in modern motorsport have demonstrated the adaptability and leadership that Oliver Oakes has shown throughout his career. From a prodigious karting champion to a team principal in Formula 1, Oakes’ journey has been defined by sharp strategic thinking and a deep understanding of racing dynamics. Now at the helm of Alpine F1 Team, he carries the responsibility of transforming the French outfit into a consistent frontrunner. With the pressure of delivering results before the team transitions to Mercedes power in 2026, Oakes’ leadership in 2025 will be pivotal.

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Oliver Oakess’ Early Life and Engineering Beginnings

Born on January 11, 1988, in Norfolk, England, Oakes was immersed in motorsport from a young age. His father, Billy Oakes, founded Eurotek Motorsport, a team that competed in Formula Renault and British Formula 3. This familial connection ignited Oliver’s passion for racing. By the age of four, he was already karting, and his talent quickly became evident. At 12, he clinched the British Open Karting Championship twice, showcasing his potential on the national stage.

His karting career peaked in 2005 when, at 17, he secured the Karting World Championship, outperforming future F1 talents like Jules Bianchi and Valtteri Bottas. This achievement caught the attention of the Red Bull Junior Programme, leading to his inclusion alongside future stars such as Sebastian Vettel and Sébastien Buemi.

Transition to Single-Seaters

In 2006, Oakes transitioned to single-seater racing, debuting in the Formula BMW UK Championship with Carlin Motorsport. He made an immediate impact, securing a pole position and a victory in his first race, and finishing the season sixth overall with three additional podiums.

His performance earned him a nomination for the prestigious McLaren Autosport BRDC Award. The following year, he competed in the Formula Renault Eurocup with Motopark Academy, finishing 12th in the standings. In 2008, Oakes joined his father’s team, Eurotek Motorsport, in the British Formula 3 Championship, achieving a pole position at Donington Park.

He continued with Carlin Motorsport in 2009 but left after two rounds, subsequently taking on test-driver roles. In 2010, he participated in the inaugural GP3 Series with Atech CRS GP, gaining valuable experience despite a challenging season.

Shift to Team Management

Recognizing his strengths beyond the cockpit, Oakes transitioned into team management in 2011 by establishing Team Oakes Racing. The karting team and management service nurtured future talents, including Callum Ilott, Marcus Armstrong, Nikita Mazepin, and Clément Novalak. Under his guidance, the team competed in prestigious events like the WSK Championship and the CIK-FIA World and European Championships.

In 2015, Oakes co-founded Hitech Grand Prix with David Hayle. The team quickly established itself in the FIA Formula 3 European Championship and expanded into other series, including FIA Formula 2 and the F3 Asian Championship. Hitech also managed operations for the W Series and the FIA Motorsport Games, reflecting Oakes’ commitment to fostering racing talent across various platforms.

Ascension to Alpine F1 Team Principal

In August 2024, Alpine F1 Team announced Oakes as their new Team Principal, following the departure of Bruno Famin. At 36, Oakes became the second-youngest Team Principal in Formula 1 history. His immediate impact was evident, leading the team to a double podium finish at the São Paulo Grand Prix, marking Alpine’s first such achievement since 2013. Oakes’ leadership style emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, qualities he honed throughout his diverse career in motorsport.

Challenges and Aspirations for the 2025 Season

The 2025 season presents significant challenges and opportunities for Oakes and Alpine. With the team’s final year utilizing Renault power units before transitioning to Mercedes engines in 2026, maximizing performance is paramount. The driver lineup features the experienced Pierre Gasly and rookie Jack Doohan. Doohan’s promotion has generated excitement, but also speculation about his position, especially with reserve driver Franco Colapinto waiting in the wings. Oakes has addressed these dynamics, emphasizing a performance-driven culture: “If there is a driver who is not making progress, who is not bringing results, he will be changed.” This approach underscores his commitment to elevating Alpine’s competitiveness in a tightly contested field.

Career Stats and Achievements

  • Date of Birth: January 11, 1988
  • Nationality: British
  • Education: King’s Ely
  • Karting Achievements:
    • Two-time British Open Karting Champion
    • 2005 Karting World Champion
  • Racing Career:
    • 2006: Formula BMW UK Championship – 1 win, 3 podiums
    • 2007: Formula Renault Eurocup – 12th place
    • 2008: British Formula 3 Championship – Pole position at Donington Park
    • 2010: GP3 Series – Competed with Atech CRS GP
  • Management Career:
    • 2011: Founded Team Oakes Racing
    • 2015: Co-founded Hitech Grand Prix
    • 2024: Appointed Team Principal of Alpine F1 Team

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With Oliver Oakes now steering the ship at Alpine, the 2025 season promises to be a defining year for the team. Will his leadership and strategic vision push Alpine into the upper echelons of Formula 1? The stage is set, and the paddock is watching.

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