Ocon and Alpine to Part Ways After 2024 Season!!

French Formula One driver Esteban Ocon and his team, BWT Alpine, have announced they will go their separate ways at the conclusion of the 2024 season. This news follows a controversial collision between Ocon and teammate Pierre Gasly at the Monaco Grand Prix, which reportedly contributed to the decision.

Five Years Together Comes to an End

Ocon has been a part of the Alpine family (formerly Renault) since 2020. He even began his racing career as a teenager at their Enstone base. In a heartfelt message, Ocon reflected on the past five years, acknowledging both victories, like his unforgettable first (and only) F1 win at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, and challenges faced as a team. He remains dedicated to delivering strong results for Alpine in the remaining races.

Focus on Remaining Strong This Season

Team principal Bruno Famin, who had talked of ‘consequences’ for the Monaco collision, believes that both driver and team would continue to deliver their best for the remainder of the campaign.

“We would like to firstly thank Esteban for his commitment to the team for the past five years,” he said.

“During his time, we have celebrated some fantastic moments together, the best of which coming at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix with a memorable race win.

“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.”

The Driver Market Heats Up

While Ocon’s future destination remains unknown, speculation is swirling. Alpine is likely to continue with Pierre Gasly (whose contract expires this year) in 2025. Other potential Alpine replacements include reserve driver Jack Doohan, WEC driver Mick Schumacher, and Alfa Romeo’s Guanyu Zhou.

As for Ocon, reports suggest he’s a target for Haas as a potential experienced teammate for their rising star Oliver Bearman. He’s also considered the preferred choice for Sauber/Audi, if Carlos Sainz decides against joining them. Sainz himself is weighing his options between Audi and a potential move to Williams alongside Alex Albon.

A New Chapter for Both

The driver market for the 2025 season promises to be exciting, with Ocon’s name at the center of it all. While the recent incident at Monaco played a role, it wasn’t the sole factor in the Alpine-Ocon split.