Alpine are once again at the centre of F1 news. This will likely persist for some time, as Ocon and Gasly remain key talking points.
Once again, Alpine is capturing the attention of F1 fans and media outlets. In almost traditional fashion, the Enstone-based team is embroiled in speculation and – generally speaking – avoidable controversy. Things are not much better on track, with the A524’s lack of performance pushing Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly to explore other options for 2025.
There is little controversy in stating that Ocon was culpable for his incident with Gasly at the Monaco GP. It was a needless move from the Grand Prix winner, especially against his own teammate. However, Alpine are largely culpable for the response to the incident.
In the aftermath of the collision, team principal Bruno Famin promised “consequences.” This harsh yet ambiguous phrasing opened Pandora’s box.
There has been a wide range of reactions and predictions over the last few days, but one theme is consistent – Alpine’s management of the situation has created more problems than solutions.
Both internally and externally, the Enstone-based operation is in a precarious position.
Esteban Ocon linked with move away from Alpine
Even before last weekend’s incident, there has been uncertainty about Ocon’s future. The 27-year-old is a fast driver with a healthy amount of experience in F1, making him an important asset in the market.
Haas are understood to have entered negotiations with Ocon, as reported by formu1a.uno. There has also been long-standing speculation about Audi-owned Sauber putting the Frenchman near the top of their shortlist. Should Sainz elect against a move to the Hinwil-based team, Ocon would become a leading contender for that seat.
Inevitably, drivers across the field are negotiating with as many teams as possible. However, focusing specifically on Ocon’s position, there are clear reasons why he could look away from Alpine.
The team’s very strong reaction to his Gasly incident in Monaco does not go well for the longevity of this partnership.
Gasly is reportedly in talks with several teams
On the opposite side of the garage, Gasly is the more likely of the Alpine drivers to continue with the team. Unlike his teammate, Gasly only arrived at Enstone two years ago.
Whilst the French squad has barely been a forward step from VCARB in terms of performance, Gasly is not linked with a move away to the same extent as his teammate.
However, there are reports that some level of talks have taken place with several teams. Although there are no indications they have become anything advanced, they are worth noting in such a volatile market.
Should an opportunity present itself, it is difficult to imagine Gasly will need much convincing to jump ship. The same can be said for Ocon, who has become something of a scapegoat for a team whose development has consistently fallen short in recent years.
