The separation between Esteban Ocon and Alpine is accelerating. The French driver, set to join Haas in 2025, will not participate in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This early departure could pave the way for Jack Doohan to make his Formula 1 debut.
A new that surprised us all just after the Qatar Grand Prix, so let’s dive into the behind-the-scenes of a split that seems to benefit everyone.
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A sudden yet logical departure
After a frustrating retirement in the Qatar Grand Prix, Esteban Ocon hinted that his time with Alpine F1 Team was coming to an end. This has now been confirmed: the Frenchman driver is stepping away from his seat before the final race of the season. Although abrupt, this decision fits into a pattern of mounting tensions between Esteban Ocon and Alpine, which have been evident for months, particularly after his collision with Pierre Gasly in Monaco. According to Oliver Oakes, Alpine’s sporting director, discussions around this separation were collaborative. “Esteban wants to start his work with Haas, and we want to prepare Jack for 2025. It seems to work well for everyone.” This scenario could also allow Esteban Ocon to participate in post-season testing with his future team: Haas F1 Team. Even though this decision does seem logical, I find it incredibly unfortunate to end a partnership like this. The only race-winning driver for Alpine is ending his collaboration in the worst possible way.
Jack Doohan ready for his F1 debut
For Alpine, this decision is also strategic: giving Jack Doohan his first full Formula 1 weekend experience before the 2025 season begins. The young Australian, currently a reserve driver, would have the chance to familiarize himself with the team in a real race context, away from the pressure of his home Grand Prix in Melbourne. “Introducing Jack now removes the stress of his first laps in Australia next year,” Oliver Oakes explained. This transition feels natural for Alpine, aiming to maximize its 2025 chances after a disappointing 2024 season. Moreover, Ocon’s early departure could help the team restore unity, often strained by internal disputes.
With 23 years of experience, this F1 driver is Aston Martin’s last hope to avoid disaster in 2025
Complex but smooth negotiations
Despite the apparent simplicity of this change, discussions between Alpine, Esteban Ocon, and Mercedes – his management – were not without challenges. Toto Wolff and Flavio Briatore, key figures at Mercedes and Alpine respectively, played crucial roles in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. The key to the negotiations? Aligning the interests of Ocon, Alpine, and Haas. “This early departure allows Esteban to fully focus on his future with Haas F1 Team, while we can give Jack a chance to prepare under optimal conditions,”Oakes shared. Final adjustments are expected to be confirmed on Monday, sealing one of the most expedited departures of the season.
This article explores the separation between Esteban Ocon and Alpine F1 Team, Jack Doohan’s strategic role in this transition, and the behind-the-scenes negotiations that led to the agreement. A well-orchestrated split that could be a turning point for both drivers and their respective teams.
Images: Alpine F1 Team media
