The curtain is set to fall on Esteban Ocon's chapter with Alpine as the French driver finds himself replaced for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In a surprising move, Ocon will hand over the reins to budding talent Jack Doohan, who is poised to make his Formula 1 debut on this grand stage. This reshuffle marks an unanticipated end to a three-year stint with Alpine—a journey that propelled both Ocon and the team to remarkable heights.
A New Era Beckons
Ocon, slated to join Haas next year, had initially intended to conclude his time with Alpine at the Abu Dhabi circuit, directly bidding farewell to the team that he joined in 2020. Throughout his tenure, Ocon became a linchpin for Alpine, securing their first and only F1 victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, an achievement that remains etched in the team's history. Additionally, his efforts alongside Pierre Gasly at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix contributed to a celebrated double podium, cementing Alpine's spot as a competitive force in the field.
Despite the collective achievements, Ocon's trajectory at Alpine was not without its challenges. The driver openly acknowledged struggles towards the latter part of the season, underscoring a challenging year on track for the team. Reflecting on his time, Ocon stated with appreciation, "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 gratitude extended across the ranks of those who supported his journey at Alpine, even as the road became rocky.
Parting Words and Legacy
As he steps away from Alpine, Ocon shared his mixed emotions, expressing a sense of unfinished business. "This is not how I want things to end," he admitted, alluding to his unplanned absence from the final race. His farewell was to be a personal goodbye, but circumstances dictated otherwise. The team, responding through their official Instagram account, acknowledged Ocon’s contributions: "Forever engrained in the Team's history. Thank you Esteban. Best of luck."
Despite the abrupt end, Ocon reflects fondly on the journey, taking pride in the memories and milestones achieved. “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 noted, highlighting moments of immense personal and professional satisfaction. It’s clear that even amid the farewell, Ocon’s legacy with Alpine will be a cherished one, resting on foundations of triumph and camaraderie.
A New Face for Alpine
The introduction of Jack Doohan adds a new dimension to Alpine’s narrative. While the curtain falls on an era defined by Ocon's driving prowess, a new chapter begins with Doohan, who Ocon supports wholeheartedly: "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." Doohan's debut is set against the backdrop of anticipation, as fans and team members alike look on to see how the promising young talent fares on this eminent platform.
As Alpine looks ahead after a year of mixed outcomes, Ocon’s transition marks a pivotal moment, not just for the team but for the broader F1 community. His presence has been both transformational and inspirational, and departing Alpine doesn’t diminish the substantial impact he has made. "It has not been an easy year on track for the team and the second part of the season has been especially difficult," Ocon reflected candidly, emphasizing his commitment to giving his all regardless of the hurdles faced.
Now, as both Alpine and Ocon prepare for their respective futures, they do so having shared pivotal moments that have reshaped the team’s standing in Formula 1. For Ocon, a new journey at Haas beckons, while Alpine welcomes Doohan with aspirations for renewed success. The final race of the season will be imbued with the echoes of Ocon's achievements, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds between a driver and his team, regardless of where the path may lead next.