New Alpine boss Oakes made important decision: 'This is nice for the team'
F1 News
- Ludo van Denderen
Oliver Oakes has barely started as Alpine's new team boss and he has had to make a very important decision: Jack Doohan has been promoted by him and the rest of the French team's management to permanent F1 driver in the '25 season. It will be a reunion of old friends for both of them.
In an initial reaction, Oakes - at the helm of Alpine since 1 August as Bruno Famin's successor - says he is hugely looking forward to working with Doohan: "We are very excited to promote Jack to a racing seat from next season, giving him the chance to showcase his skills and talent in Formula 1. Jack will be the first driver to graduate from the Alpine Academy and become a racing driver with the team, so that is extremely pleasing for the team and as an example to young drivers."
Oakes recognises potential in Doohan
Oakes and Doohan know each other from their time together in F4; one as a driver, the other as a manager. "Personally, I worked with Jack in 2019 and I know his sheer talent and potential. He is a very hardworking man behind the scenes and his dedication is greatly appreciated by the whole team."
"Alongside Pierre [Gasly], we have a well-balanced driver line-up, with a good combination of youthful energy, experience and pure speed. We look forward to working with both Jack and Pierre to continue to develop the car and take the team forward on the grid," Oakes concluded.
This article has been written in collaboration with Ben Stevens.
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