Esteban Ocon, Alpine.
With Esteban Ocon facing the reportedly “serious” threat of being benched for the Canadian Grand Prix, he referred to uncertainty over his Alpine future as the “dark side” of Formula 1 as he searches for career security.
Ocon became one of the major talking points of the Monaco Grand Prix for all the wrong reasons after colliding with Alpine team-mate Pierre Gasly on the opening lap at Portier, a coming together which saw Ocon’s A524 lifted off the ground.
Esteban Ocon does not want to lose F1 place again
Additional reporting by Thomas Maher
Ocon’s race came to an end due to the incident, leading to Alpine team boss Bruno Famin expressing his anger and warning of potential consequences for the driver. Media personnel interpreted this as a hint that Ocon might have to miss the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix, a possibility that is said to be seriously contemplated.
At present, Ocon and Gasly find themselves in a crucial phase of their F1 careers, as they strive to secure their futures in the sport. They are currently under Alpine contracts, which are set to expire by the conclusion of the 2024 F1 season. Ocon, in particular, is adamant about not facing another period of inactivity, which he dubs as the undesirable “dark side” of Formula 1.
After being replaced by Lance Stroll at Racing Point in 2018, Ocon would often recall that season, which marked his departure from the team due to Lawrence Stroll’s acquisition. However, he made a comeback in 2020, joining Renault and rejoining the Formula 1 grid.
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When questioned by various media outlets, such as PlanetF1.com, about the recent significant alterations in the Alpine team, which involve the addition of new executive technical director David Sanchez, Ocon responded by saying, “We will have to wait and see.”
“In Formula 1, as you’re aware, circumstances can swiftly shift.”
“But the utmost priority remains ensuring early security. It has always been my steadfast goal.”
“I wish to avoid incurring the same cost again, similar to what happened in late 2018. It was an unpleasant experience, unrelated to performance.”
“I believe I am performing well once again this year, as I have done in my previous years in F1. I am confident that I deserve a place in F1, but ultimately, time will tell.”
Right now, I am completely focused on this team and fully committed to it, as if I have been involved in the project for years.
“In Formula 1, there exists a rather gloomy aspect, one that I have never found pleasure in. Therefore, the sooner it concludes, the more preferable it will be.”
If the unexpected decision to replace Ocon is made, Jack Doohan, the reserve driver for Alpine, might have the opportunity to make his Formula 1 debut in Canada.
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