Esteban Ocon’s journey with Alpine is set to end after this season. The French driver, who has been with the team since its Renault days in 2020, will leave following the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship.
Ocon, a former Mercedes reserve driver, initially joined Renault after two seasons with the Mercedes-powered Force India/Racing Point team. In 2021, the team rebranded as Alpine, but despite the new name, Ocon faced ongoing team-mate issues, clashing with both Fernando Alonso and Pierre Gasly on track.
Although there were no official hints that his most recent clash with Gasly at the Monaco Grand Prix influenced the decision, Alpine has confirmed that this will be Ocon’s final year with them. Team boss Bruno Famin expressed his gratitude for Ocon’s commitment over the past five years, highlighting memorable moments such as Ocon’s victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix.
Famin stated, “We still have 16 races to complete in 2024 together with a clear objective: to continue to work tirelessly as a team to push for the best on-track results. We wish Esteban the very best for the next chapter of his driving career when that moment comes.”
Ocon reflected on his time with the team, saying, “It’s been a significant period of my life to be racing at this team in Formula 1. While I’ve been here for five years as a full-time racing driver, my professional career started at Enstone back when I was a teenager, so it will always be a special place for me. We have had some great moments together, some tough moments as well, and I am certainly grateful to everyone at the team for these memorable times. I will announce my plans very soon but, in the meantime, my full focus is on delivering on track for this team and having a successful remainder of the season.”
As speculation grows over who will fill Ocon’s seat, Alpine reserve driver Jack Doohan is currently leading the race. Mick Schumacher, who competes for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship, is also considered a potential replacement.
The announcement of Ocon’s departure marks the end of an era for both the driver and Alpine. Fans will be watching closely as he completes his final season and as the team reveals its 2025 line-up.
Source: Planetf1
