Esteban Ocon's Final Lap with Alpine
Esteban Ocon's journey with Alpine will soon reach its conclusion as the French driver is replaced for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. After three illustrious years with the team, marked by notable achievements and mounting challenges, Ocon will hand over the reins to Jack Doohan, who will make his Formula 1 debut on this prestigious platform.
Joining Alpine in 2020, Ocon quickly became a pivotal figure within the team. His tenure was highlighted by securing Alpine's first and only Formula 1 victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, a moment etched in the annals of Alpine's sporting history. Ocon also played a crucial role alongside teammate Pierre Gasly, securing a double podium finish for the team at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, further accentuating his contribution to Alpine's journey in the fiercely competitive world of Formula 1.
Despite these high points, Ocon has candidly admitted to facing significant challenges, particularly in the latter part of the current season. "It has not been an easy year on track for the team and the second part of the season has been especially difficult," he reflected. This candid acknowledgment highlights the ebbs and flows experienced by both the driver and the team, encapsulating the essence of racing's unpredictability.
However, the curtains on his Alpine chapter draw in a manner that Ocon seems to have wished would be different. "This is not how I want things to end," Ocon lamented, expressing a sense of unfulfilled closure. Yet, it's a farewell not devoid of gratitude. He took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him throughout his journey: "I would like to first and foremost thank the mechanics and engineers across all functions at the track, Enstone, and Viry-Châtillon who have raced alongside me these last five seasons."
As Alpine bids adieu to Ocon, the sentiment is mutual. The team expressed their appreciation via their official Instagram account, stating, "Forever engrained in the Team's history. Thank you, Esteban. Best of luck." It's a testament to the indelible mark Ocon has left on the team, as well as the mutual respect and acknowledgment of the journey they've undertaken together.
Looking beyond the final race with Alpine, Ocon is set to join Haas next year, opening a new chapter in his racing career. His transition to Haas signals both continuity and change, offering him a fresh start after a memorable tenure at Alpine. Meanwhile, Ocon leaves the team with both pride and reflection, stating, "I leave Alpine Renault with great memories and the pride of having been the driver who brought the team's best results since its return to the sport."
As for his successor, Jack Doohan, it marks a significant transition for the young driver as he steps onto Formula 1's grand stage. Ocon extends his best wishes to him, highlighting their camaraderie beyond the competitive track: "I would also like to wish nothing but great things to my friend Jack as he takes this next big step in his career at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix."
In the high-octane world of Formula 1, team dynamics, and individual achievements mesh to create a narrative of both personal and collective success and challenges. As Ocon's chapter with Alpine concludes, the legacies built and memories shared continue to drive forward both parties, spurred by the unyielding spirit of competition and camaraderie.