In a stunning turn of events, Esteban Ocon looks set to miss the final race of the 2024 Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi, paving the way for Alpine’s rising star Jack Doohan to make his F1 debut. Ocon’s departure marks an early end to his tenure with Alpine, as he prepares to join Haas in 2025 after a five-season stint with Renault’s works team.
Ocon’s Frustrating Farewell Campaign
Ocon’s 2024 season has been fraught with challenges, culminating in a frustrating Qatar Grand Prix where he was eliminated in a first-corner clash with Nico Hülkenberg—the driver he will replace at Haas. Despite flashes of brilliance, including a second-place finish in Alpine’s double podium at the Brazilian Grand Prix, Ocon has struggled to match teammate Pierre Gasly’s consistency in recent races.
Qualifying almost a second slower than Gasly in Qatar, Ocon hinted at underlying issues with his car, though Alpine has repeatedly denied any discrepancies between the two vehicles. Gasly’s fifth-place finish in Qatar, aided by a front wing and nose upgrade, only widened the performance gap, adding fuel to speculation about Ocon’s frustrations.
After the Qatar race, Ocon’s remarks carried the tone of a goodbye, thanking Alpine for their hard work and expressing hope for the future. “When it’s not going so well, the engineers and mechanics have stuck together, and that’s the most important thing,” he said. The comments reinforced rumors that his season might already be over.
Jack Doohan’s Early Shot at F1 Stardom
Alpine is reportedly considering an early debut for Jack Doohan, the young Australian driver who is set to join the team full-time in 2025. Doohan, son of motorcycle racing legend Mick Doohan, has impressed in junior categories and is highly regarded within the Alpine camp. An early start in Abu Dhabi would provide invaluable experience ahead of his rookie season.
The timing is strategic for Alpine, which is locked in a tight battle for sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship. Currently five points ahead of Haas, the team may see Doohan’s introduction as an opportunity to test their future talent while maintaining their competitive edge.
Why the Move Makes Sense for Alpine
The decision to replace Ocon ahead of Abu Dhabi aligns with several factors. Ocon’s impending departure to Haas diminishes his long-term stakes in Alpine’s success, while Doohan’s debut offers a chance to evaluate the team’s future lineup under real race conditions. Additionally, Ocon’s recent performance discrepancies and public frustration may have accelerated Alpine’s plans for change.
While Alpine has declined to comment officially, sources within the team suggest this move had been under consideration prior to the Qatar GP. It’s a bold decision, but one that underscores Alpine’s focus on the future.
What’s Next for Ocon and Alpine?
For Ocon, the early exit allows him to shift focus to his new chapter with Haas. He is expected to participate in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, getting his first taste of the car he’ll drive in 2025.
As for Alpine, the introduction of Jack Doohan represents the start of a new era. The team’s willingness to shake up its lineup ahead of the season finale signals confidence in Doohan’s abilities and a commitment to preparing for a stronger 2025 campaign.
A Decisive Moment in F1’s Midfield Battle
With Alpine’s lead over Haas in the Constructors’ Championship hanging by a thread, the final race in Abu Dhabi promises high drama. Whether Doohan can rise to the occasion or Haas capitalizes on Ocon’s absence, the battle for sixth place is set to go down to the wire.
For now, all eyes are on Jack Doohan as he prepares to make his Formula 1 debut, and on Esteban Ocon as he bids an early farewell to Alpine and looks ahead to a fresh start with Haas.