Esteban Ocon will part ways with Alpine at the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season, marking the end of a five-year stint with the Enstone-based outfit. While the precise reasons behind the split haven’t been explicitly stated, speculation suggests the controversial collision with teammate Pierre Gasly at the Monaco Grand Prix might have been a contributing factor.
According to reports, the incident left team management “upset” and prompted discussions surrounding the team’s future driver lineup. While not solely responsible for the decision. The on-track clash likely played a role in the mutual agreement to part ways in 2025.
Ocon, a product of Alpine’s junior development program, offered a heartfelt farewell message acknowledging his long-standing relationship with the team.
“It’s been a significant period of my life to be racing at this team in Formula 1,” he said. “While I’ve been here for five years as a full-time racing driver, my professional career started at Enstone back when I was a teenager, so it will always be a special place for me.”
He reminisced on his time with Alpine, highlighting “great moments” and “tough moments” shared with the team. Expressing gratitude for the “memorable times,” Ocon reassured fans that his focus remains firmly on delivering strong results for Alpine in the remaining races of the season.
While keeping his future plans under wraps for now, Ocon’s announcement has sparked speculation about his next move. Will he join a new team on the F1 grid, or will he take a sabbatical from the sport? Only time will tell where the talented Frenchman lands after his Alpine chapter closes.
This driver change also raises questions for Alpine. Who will they choose to partner with Pierre Gasly in 2025? Will they look to promote driver from their junior program, or will they target an experienced racer from another team? The upcoming driver market shuffle promises to be an exciting one, with Ocon’s departure adding another piece to the puzzle.
