As the Formula 1 season nears its dramatic conclusion, Esteban Ocon's journey with Alpine is set to conclude at the end of the season. After announcing his imminent departure from the team, Ocon will not compete in the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Instead, the race will serve as a milestone moment for Jack Doohan, who is poised to make his Formula 1 debut, stepping in as Ocon's replacement.
A Legacy at Alpine
Ocon's tenure with Alpine spans back to 2020. During his three-year career with the team, Ocon etched his name into the history books with notable achievements. He captured Alpine's first—and only—Formula 1 victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, a feat that remains a highlight of his time with the team. Another memorable moment came when Ocon and his teammate, Pierre Gasly, delivered a double podium in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, further cementing Alpine's competitive presence on the track.
Reflecting on his journey, Ocon expressed gratitude to those who have been instrumental during his time with Alpine. "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," Ocon shared. With emotions running high, Ocon admitted, "This is not how I want things to end."
Challenges and Transitions
Despite these achievements, the latter part of the current season brought significant challenges for Ocon and Alpine, taking a toll on the team's performance. "It has not been an easy year on track for the team and the second part of the season has been especially difficult," Ocon remarked. Navigating these hurdles has been part of the journey that Ocon now prepares to leave behind. He looks forward to joining Haas next year, turning yet another page in his Formula 1 career.
The announcement of his departure sparked reactions from within the team and the broader Formula 1 community. In a heartfelt message, Alpine's official Instagram account thanked Ocon, expressing, "Forever engrained in the Team's history. Thank you Esteban. Best of luck." Ocon himself reflected on his time with Alpine with pride, stating, "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."
A New Opportunity for Doohan
For Jack Doohan, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix represents a significant opportunity to showcase his potential on one of the sport's grandest stages. Ocon extended his well wishes to Doohan, viewing this opportunity as an exciting new chapter for his colleague. "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," Ocon conveyed.
As the racing world turns its attention to the dynamic Doohan, anticipation builds regarding how he will handle the pressures and demands of Formula 1 competition. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see what the young driver will bring to the table in his debut performance.
End of an Era
With the upcoming changes, Alpine faces a pivotal moment of transformation. The curtain may be closing on Esteban Ocon's time with the team, but the impact of his contributions and successes will linger in the memories of fans and the annals of the sport. As both Ocon and Alpine prepare for their respective futures, the spirit of competition, resilience, and admiration underlines their shared history, serving as a testament to the enduring allure and drama that only Formula 1 can deliver.