Amid a season characterized by significant trials and tribulations, Esteban Ocon's tenure with Alpine in Formula 1 is set for a dramatic finale. The French driver, who has been a staple on the team since 2020, will not be racing at the season finale in Abu Dhabi. Instead, this opportunity will be a baptism by fire for Jack Doohan, poised to make his debut in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
Ocon's exit from Alpine marks the end of a three-year journey marked by both triumphs and challenges. In 2021, he celebrated an unforgettable victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, securing what remains Alpine's only win in Formula 1. His partnership with Pierre Gasly also gave the team a memorable double podium finish at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, cementing moments that stand out in the team's competitive history.
However, recent months have been less forgiving for Ocon, who acknowledged facing a slew of difficulties towards the season's end. "It has not been an easy year on track for the team, and the second part of the season has been especially difficult," Ocon candidly remarked, leaving no room for ambiguity concerning his struggles. Despite the hurdles, he expressed immense gratitude to those who have been part of his journey with the team. "I would like to first and foremost thank the mechanics and engineers across all functions at the track, Enstone, and Viry-Châtillon who have raced alongside me these last five seasons," he said.
Alpine, acknowledging Ocon's contributions, paid tribute to their departing driver. An emotional note from the team's official Instagram account read, "Forever engrained in the Team's history. Thank you, Esteban. Best of luck."
In an emotional reflection on his time with Alpine, Ocon conveyed a mix of pride and nostalgia. "I leave Alpine Renault with great memories and the pride of having been the driver who brought the team's best results since its return to the sport," he shared. Nevertheless, there is a palpable sense of unfinished business. "This is not how I want things to end," he admitted, as his time with the team draws to a premature close.
While Ocon's chapter with Alpine concludes, a new journey awaits him with Haas for the upcoming season. This transition underscores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Formula 1, where drivers often find themselves navigating the intricacies of team changes amidst high-stakes competition.
As Ocon steps aside, Jack Doohan steps in, armed with the hopes and aspirations that come with a debut on one of motorsport’s biggest stages. Expressing his optimism for the young driver's future, Ocon remarked, "I would also like to wish nothing but great things to my friend Jack as he takes this next big step in his career at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix."
Doohan's emergence onto the Formula 1 scene epitomizes the fresh talent continually entering the sport, and his debut in Abu Dhabi will undoubtedly be watched with great interest by fans and experts alike. This moment marks not only the end of an era for Ocon at Alpine but also the dawn of potential for Doohan, as he sets his sights on carving out his own legacy within the sport.
The curtain may be falling on Ocon's time with Alpine, but the echoes of his accomplishments will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the halls of the team. As Alpine looks to the future, and Ocon transitions to new challenges with Haas, the world of Formula 1 remains as compelling and unpredictable as ever.