Contrary to speculations surrounding Ocon’s position in the Canadian Grand Prix following his collision with Gasly in Monaco, these rumors seem to be unfounded.
The Formula 1 transfer period is gaining momentum as contract announcements emerge throughout the first eight races of the season.
The latest news confirms that Alex Albon has extended his contract with Williams, securing a place on the grid for 2025.
According to journalist Nate Saunders, who spoke on the Unlapped Podcast, another decision has been made that will impact the lineup in the paddock next year.
Drivers who currently do not have contracts see each race as an opportunity to demonstrate their worth, either to their current team or elsewhere.
Furthermore, several talented rookie drivers are looking to enter Formula 1 next year.
One driver who is likely to lose his seat in 2025 is Esteban Ocon of Alpine.
Despite showing speed in a troublesome car and scoring the team’s first point in Miami, Ocon’s relationship with the team has deteriorated.
He joins Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg among those looking for new teams for the upcoming season.
The decision to pair Ocon with Pierre Gasly was always a risky move for Alpine.
Gasly joined the team from AlphaTauri in 2023, but he was not their initial choice.
Initially, Oscar Piastri was rumored to replace Fernando Alonso, but he was hired by McLaren instead.
The tension between Ocon and Gasly, exacerbated by a significant crash in Australia in 2023, resulted in the loss of valuable points.
Midway through last year, Alpine parted ways with a significant portion of its senior management, further worsening the situation.
Ocon has been exploring his options for 2025, indicating that he has been aware for some time that he may lose his seat.
Saunders commented on Ocon’s future, stating: “I believe if you had asked Bruno Famin one minute after that interview: ‘Will you release him next week?’ I think he could have said yes. But it seems the situation has calmed down a bit. I increasingly doubt he will be with Alpine next season. He is causing too many problems.”
Despite rumors that Ocon’s seat was in jeopardy at the Canadian Grand Prix after his collision with Gasly in Monaco, these rumors seem unfounded.
The one-time race winner is exploring his options for next year, with several teams showing interest.
Martin Brundle pointed out Ocon’s tendency to clash with teammates, which could hinder his chances of joining top teams.
Audi is considering Ocon for next year if they fail to sign Sainz, while Haas has targeted him as a replacement for Hulkenberg.
However, Ocon’s next move may not result in a significant improvement in his grid position.
