Alpine will part ways with Esteban Ocon after the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Esteban Ocon was informed that his Alpine contract would not be extended for the F1 2025 season after a simulator session at Enstone last Thursday, it has been claimed.
Alpine confirmed on Monday that Ocon will depart at the end of the season after five years with the team.
Haas the favourites to sign Esteban Ocon after Alpine exit confirmed
The announcement is made after a period of eight days following Ocon’s collision with team-mate Pierre Gasly during the first lap of the Monaco Grand Prix. Team principal Bruno Famin publicly warned that Ocon might be benched for the upcoming race in Canada.
The decision to separate from Ocon is believed to be unrelated to the incidents in Monte Carlo. His future was already uncertain as he entered the last year of his F1 contract in 2024.
According to a report by Formula 1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto, Ocon was informed during a visit to Alpine’s Enstone factory last Thursday that he would not be receiving a new car. This visit included a scheduled session in the simulator.
Who will replace Esteban Ocon at Alpine?
Alpine F1 2025 shortlist: Who will replace Esteban Ocon for next season?
The 10 drivers out of contract at the end of the F1 2024 season
Ocon allegedly encountered Famin afterwards and received information that he would be granted release by the conclusion of 2024.
After Famin’s alleged contemplation of replacing Ocon for the Canadian Grand Prix, the Frenchman released a statement the next day assuring his participation in the race in Montreal.
In addition, Ocon shared that he had experienced profound sadness due to the mistreatment and negativity he faced following the Monaco race.
After reports in Germany suggested that Haas, a Ferrari customer, is in a favorable position to sign the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix winner, new claims regarding the details of Ocon’s departure have emerged.
If Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz is not available for F1 2025, Ocon is believed to be a top option for Audi/Sauber.
Ocon dropped a hint in his departure announcement from Alpine, suggesting that he will reveal his plans for the upcoming season in the near future.
He expressed that being a part of this Formula 1 team has been a significant period of his life.
Although I have spent five years here as a full-time racing driver, my professional journey actually began at Enstone during my teenage years. This fact makes it a place that holds immense significance for me, and it will always remain special in my heart.
Together, we have experienced both incredible and challenging moments, and I am sincerely thankful to each and every member of the team for these unforgettable times.
“My plans will be revealed shortly, however, at present, my utmost dedication lies in performing exceptionally on the track for this team and ensuring a prosperous conclusion to the season.”
Read next: F1 silly season predictions reloaded: The 10 drivers to fill remaining F1 2025 grid slots
