Alpine’s scandalous swap: the controversy behind Franco Colapinto and Jack Doohan’s move. Alpine's sudden team changes, including the controversial swap between Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto, stir up scandal and speculation.

The sudden resignation of Oliver Oakes and the swap between Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto at Alpine continue to stir controversy in the paddock. Moreover, new rumors are emerging about the turmoil within Alpine following the Miami Grand Prix, raising eyebrows regarding their decisions.

According to renowned F1 photographer Kym Illman, Alpine’s management and key figures close to Jack Doohan were informed of the decision just before the race began. However, it seems that Doohan chose not to say anything at that moment, letting the news be revealed only after the race to avoid influencing performance or disrupting the internal balance of the weekend.

Doohan was informed of the swap with Colapinto before the Miami Grand Prix.

If this information turns out to be true, it would highlight a recurring issue at Alpine. Last year, Esteban Ocon was subjected to a similar treatment before the Qatar GP, the penultimate race of the season.

There has been no official statement confirming this speculation, but the resignation and the presence of Flavio Briatore – a figure known for his influence within Alpine – suggest a top-down change in direction. In fact, this decision may be behind Oakes’ sudden departure as team principal.

With Oakes’ exit, Flavio Briatore will temporarily take charge of the team, marking a return to direct management that recalls his leadership years with Benetton and Renault. A seasoned strategist, Flavio Briatore has already started taking control of the operational role, including short-term sporting and technical decisions.

Alpine, currently in a delicate phase of technical reconstruction and with a 2026 project to develop, will now have to navigate this transition at the most critical point of the season.