P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Flavio Briatore is set to secure the services of his preferred new Alpine F1 team boss after all – despite an initial refusal
Alpine is close to deciding on a new de-facto team boss, with Steve Nielsen emerging as the leading candidate despite initially declining the role. Oliver Oakes resigned as team principal after the Miami Grand Prix, leading to the search for a replacement. Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s executive advisor, has taken on Oakes’s responsibilities temporarily but is seeking a long-term solution. Briatore’s preference for someone he trusts has brought Nielsen, with his successful history at Benetton/Renault, to the forefront as a key target. Negotiations for a revised role for Nielsen are underway, focusing on operations without a direct team principal position. Alpine aims to finalize the decision before the summer break, considering any gardening leave necessary for Nielsen’s transition.
