In a surprising turn of events, Esteban Ocon's stint with Alpine is set to conclude sooner than anticipated. Ahead of the season-ending finale at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Jack Doohan is poised to step into the high-profile shoes of Ocon, making his Formula 1 debut. This replacement marks the end of a significant chapter for Ocon, who has been a mainstay at Alpine since 2020, contributing to some of the team’s more landmark achievements in Formula 1.
Reflecting on his time with the team, Ocon expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, "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." His words resonate with a deep sense of appreciation for the team that has been integral to his journey over the years.
During his tenure, Ocon etched his name into Alpine's history with a remarkable victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, a win that remains the team's only triumph in Formula 1. This success was a testament to his skills and determination, further highlighted by a formidable performance alongside Pierre Gasly, where the two secured a double podium for Alpine at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. "Forever engrained in the Team's history. Thank you Esteban. Best of luck," read a tribute to Ocon on Alpine's official Instagram account, capturing the sentiment of both the team and its supporters.
However, not all has been smooth sailing for Ocon and Alpine. The latter half of the season has presented substantial challenges. "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 acknowledged. These hurdles have contributed to a reshaping of the team’s dynamics as it looks to the future.
Ocon’s departure paves the way for new beginnings as he is set to join Haas next year. With both promise and potential, this move could add a compelling chapter to Ocon's racing narrative. Alpine, on the other hand, casts its hopes on Jack Doohan—a name warranting attention as he embarks on this critical career juncture. Ocon wished his successor well, offering his support with the words, "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."
Reflecting on leaving, Ocon admitted, "This is not how I want things to end," yet he carries with him the pride of having achieved significant results for the team. "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 reflected, reminiscing the moments of triumph and the enduring legacy he leaves.
The transition marks a pivotal moment for both Ocon and Alpine. For Ocon, it is a bittersweet farewell infused with pride and possibility. For Alpine, it signifies a new era as they welcome Jack Doohan into the fold, hoping to ignite fresh energy and aspirations as they move forward. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will thus not only be a closure of a season but also a prologue to new beginnings for all involved.