The general manager revealed what the internal structure of the French team is like as it undergoes a complete reconstruction ahead of 2026
After years working in management at FIA and Liberty Media, Nielsen now faces the challenge of readapting to the pace of a racing team. "I have to get familiar with everything again. There are many new things, such as the budget cap, which I now see from the other side," he explained.
The internal situation at Alpine remains one of the most complex in the paddock. Since Oliver Oakes's departure in May, the French team has been operating without an official team principal. However, internally, they assure that the leadership is clear, and Steve Nielsen revealed the organization.
At the beginning of September, Nielsen joined as general manager, with the task of organizing operations at the Enstone headquarters. "Flavio (Briatore) is the one who leads," Nielsen acknowledged. "I'm in charge of Enstone and everything related to that base. This is how we move forward. Internally, we are clear about how responsibilities are divided, and that's how we manage it," he added.
Meanwhile, Flavio Briatore focuses on strategic decisions, Nielsen concentrates on operational management and will be the public face of the team at many official events. This is not new territory for him: he worked at Enstone during the Benetton era, when the team celebrated its titles with Michael Schumacher. "It's a bit like going back to the school where you studied. They welcomed me very warmly and there are many new faces, but also old acquaintances," he said with a smile.
After several races as a starter, Franco Colapinto is gradually earning a place in the consideration of Alpine's executives. In this regard, Nielsen himself supported Colapinto, who has the statistics, and the sponsors, in his favor: "Honestly, it's no secret. Drivers are first compared to their teammates. Pierre is a very experienced driver. We compare Franco to Pierre. And he's done an excellent job in the last three races," he argued.
"If this continues, I see no reason why he can't remain in the position, but that decision is still far off," he concluded.
