Esteban Ocon's departure from Alpine marks a significant shift for the team as they prepare for the 2025 season, highlighting the competitive nature of Formula 1 and the constant evaluation of driver performance.
Jack Doohan's promotion to race driver reflects Alpine's strategy to invest in young talent, especially given his lineage as the son of motorcycle champion Mick Doohan.
The dynamics of driver contracts and team strategies in Formula 1 are complex, often influenced by performance, marketability, and team needs.
Jack Doohan's performance in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix could set the tone for his future with Alpine and influence the team's decisions regarding driver line-ups for the upcoming seasons.
Esteban Ocon's transition to Haas may lead to a renewed focus on his career, potentially revitalizing his performance after a challenging season with Alpine.
The ongoing discussions about Franco Colapinto's future with Alpine could lead to further changes in the team's driver roster, depending on performance outcomes in the final races.
Haas driver Esteban Ocon will not compete for Alpine in the final Grand Prix of the Formula 1 season this weekend in Abu Dhabi. He will be replaced by Australian Jack Doohan, as confirmed by the Franco-British team on Monday. This decision allows Ocon to focus on his new role with Haas during the pre-season testing in Abu Dhabi. Doohan, who is already signed as an official driver alongside Pierre Gasly for the 2025 season, will race under his reserve number, No. 61, and participate in the end-of-season testing at the Yas Marina circuit.
The announcement follows Ocon's last race with Alpine at the Qatar Grand Prix, where he retired early after a collision. Ocon has been with Alpine since 2020, achieving four podiums and one victory in 106 Grands Prix. Currently, he ranks 14th in the world championship with 23 points, largely due to a strong performance at the Brazilian Grand Prix earlier this season.
Team principal Oliver Oakes indicated that this change is mutually beneficial, allowing Ocon to transition to Haas while giving Doohan an opportunity to gain experience ahead of his official debut in 2025. The decision comes amid speculation regarding Ocon's future and potential competition for his seat from other drivers, including Franco Colapinto.
