Alpine’s Esteban Ocon.
With Esteban Ocon set to sit out FP1 at the Canadian Grand Prix, Alpine has moved to deny that this is the “consequences” threatened.
In the immediate aftermath of a first-lap collision between Alpine team-mates Ocon and Pierre Gasly in Monaco, team principal Bruno Famin spoke with French broadcaster Canal+ and threatened “consequences” for Ocon.
Esteban Ocon not out of Canada FP1 for disciplinary reasons
Due to the shunt, Ocon will begin his race weekend in the Canadian GP with a five-place grid penalty. He will join the practice session from the second hour, while Alpine reserve driver Jack Doohan will take control of Ocon’s A524 for the FP1 session.
Contrary to popular belief, an Alpine representative has clarified that this decision is not a direct reaction to the events in Monaco.
Doohan is set to make his fifth FP1 appearance with Alpine. The Australian driver is a top candidate for a race seat in F1 2025, as Ocon will depart from the team after this season, as announced prior to the Canadian Grand Prix.
Doohan is eagerly looking forward to his first encounter with the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve as he prepares to hit the track in Montréal.
He expressed his enthusiasm for hitting the track in Montréal for FP1, mentioning that he was eagerly anticipating his first experience driving at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve.
I express my gratitude to the team for granting me the chance to have more track time and acquaint myself with the 2024 machinery at the beginning of the season. This experience will greatly support the work I am undertaking in the simulator, especially during the European rounds.
“I will prioritize doing my best for the team and ensuring both drivers have a productive session. This includes examining specific test elements and familiarizing ourselves with the new track surface.”
Famin stated that in Canada, they opted for the first compulsory young driver Free Practice 1 session, assigning Jack Doohan to drive the A524 instead of Esteban. This decision aimed to provide him with a chance to experience being behind the wheel.
Jack’s recent accomplishments in the simulator make us confident that we can rely on his valuable input in Montréal.
More key talking points ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix
The five key takeaways from the FIA’s major 2026 regulations overhaul
Uncovered: The new Mercedes W15 front wing with legality wire now removed
After facing heavy criticism and facing doubts about his future with Alpine, with some even suggesting that he might be sidelined for the Canadian GP as a consequence of the Monaco crash, Ocon has responded strongly with a heartfelt statement on social media. He is eager to return to the driver’s seat this weekend in Montreal.
He expressed his eagerness to hit the road again and return to the track after the recent discussions.
“I am completely devoted to the team and channeling my energy towards optimizing our performance on the track, beginning with the upcoming race in Canada.”
“We demonstrated a promising pace in Monaco, especially during qualifying, where we had the chance to secure both cars in Q3. Throughout the season, our team has been steadily improving. Although the track in Montréal presents different challenges, we aim to maintain our momentum and showcase similar speed to what we achieved in Monaco.”
“Given the current close competition, maximizing performance in every aspect becomes crucial.”
Alpine sit P9 in the Constructors’ standings with two points scored so far in F1 2024.
Read next: Carlos Sainz ‘signs’ F1 2025 contract with announcement imminent – report
