Alpine are expected to replace Esteban Ocon with Jack Doohan at the Abu Dhabi GP. After five years at Enstone, Ocon is set to depart prematurely after a disappointing Qatar GP and an extended spell of worsening relations with the team.
Doohan set to replace Ocon for the season finale in Abu Dhabi
Ocon’s relationship with Alpine has rapidly worsened over the last few months.
Their partnership first came under major strain in Monaco, when the 28-year-old made contact with teammate Pierre Gasly.
Since then, a variety of on and off-track factors have further increased tensions.
After last weekend’s race in Las Vegas, Ocon was left questioning the gap to his teammate.
Following another disappointing qualifying yesterday, when asked if Alpine were giving him equal treatment, he simply responded – “I hope so.”
Driver-team relationship quickly deteriorates
With Ocon sceptical about his delta to Gasly in recent events, his trust in the team is at an all-time low.
According to numerous reports, Alpine are going to pull the trigger and make a driver swap at the season finale.
This is not the first time there have been suggestions that Ocon could be replaced mid-season.
In the immediate aftermath of his Monaco incident with Gasly, there were also suggestions that Doohan could take his place at the Canadian GP.
However, at the time, Alpine opted against such drastic action. On this occasion, it seems that Oliver Oakes’ team is willing to follow through.
Jack Doohan, who is set to drive for Alpine in 2025, will reportedly drive alongside Pierre Gasly next weekend in Abu Dhabi.
There are many indications that today might have been Ocon’s final race with Team Enstone.
His post-race comments certainly indicate a swap could happen:
“I would like to thank the team for their hard work in the race and throughout the year.”
Several changes at Alpine
Aside from his magical Brazil podium, the last twelve months have been especially positive for the Frenchman.
Ocon’s struggles have become particularly acute since Alpine’s COTA upgrade package.
In any case, not for the first time, an Alpine driver is leaving the team on sour terms.
Ocon will look ahead to next season and the beginning of his partnership with Haas, when he will race alongside Oliver Bearman.
From the Alpine perspective, putting Doohan into the car for the season finale gives them an opportunity to asses the Australian’s pace and give him vital experience for 2025.
Although Doohan is unlikely to match Ocon’s pace in such last-minute circumstances, Team Enstone seem satisfied to give the Australian an opportunity.
In the background to this evolving story, Alpine are also understood to be in talks with Franco Colapinto.
Whilst it is unclear what Alpine’s plans are for the Argentine, there is certainly interest in the 21-year-old.
Not for the first time in the last few years, there are plenty of on and off-track developments at Team Enstone.
