Esteban Ocon has raced for Alpine since 2020 when the team was called Renault. The 28-year-old won his only race for the team at a rain-soaked Hungary in 2021. He also has secured four podium finishes for the team.
However, his five-year stint with the Enstone-based team will come to an end prematurely. The Frenchman was due to leave for Haas at the end of the season. However, Ocon won’t race at the final grand prix this season.
Estaban Ocon to be replaced by Jack Doohan
After the announcement in July that Ocon would join Haas, Australian rookie Jack Doohan was confirmed to partner Pierre Gasly at Alpine next season. However, the 21-year-old will be thrown into the deep end for the season finale in Abu Dhabi. This decision was based on Ocon wanting to drive for Haas in the post-season test.
A statement from Alpine said: “The team would like to thank Esteban for his time at the team and he will remain part of the team’s history achieving the first win for Alpine in Formula 1. We wish Esteban the best for the future.”
Thank you, Esteban ❤
We’ve shared some special memories together and wish you all the best for your next chapter. pic.twitter.com/PXdHdAjIRv
— BWT Alpine Formula One Team (@AlpineF1Team) December 2, 2024
Part of the negotiations for Ocon to drive for Haas in the post-season test saw him agree to leave the team early. This is a strange decision as Alpine is embroiled in a close battle for sixth in the constructors’ championship. Will putting a rookie in the car for the final race cost Alpine the extra position and extra cash?
Who is Jack Doohan?
Jack Doohan was announced in August to be replacing Ocon. However, Doohan has been part of the furniture at Alpine, being their reserve driver since 2023. The Aussie signed a one-year deal with the team and will hope to impress alongside established teammate Pierre Gasly.
TEAM STATEMENT@jackdoohan33 will race at the #AbuDhabiGP in place of Esteban Ocon pic.twitter.com/EcdCZrZTJA
— BWT Alpine Formula One Team (@AlpineF1Team) December 2, 2024
Doohan was part of the Alpine Driver Academy, meaning the Aussie has been able to test F1 machinery. The 21-year-old from the Gold Coast has competed in F2 for three years, securing five wins and multiple podiums. Last season, he secured third in the championship.
