Why is the Alpine F1 team releasing Esteban Ocon at the end of the season?

The French team’s current situation is very unfavorable. Things became more serious after Esteban Ocon made an ambitious and unilateral attempt to overtake his teammate Pierre Gasly during the Monte Carlo Grand Prix. This resulted in a collision and caused chaos on the track and within the team.

Ocan’s series of mistakes at Alpine in 2024

After his time with Force India, the Frenchman sought a contract with Renault, which rebranded to Alpine F1 in 2021. Okon performed well in the French team and even won the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2021. He finished eighth overall in 2022, but 2024 was a nightmare.

In the first eight races, he only scored one point. During the race in Monte Carlo, he caused an incident that was the last straw, that collision with his teammate Gasly during an overtaking maneuver without the team’s permission. Because of this, it was suggested that Ocon would be replaced for the Canadian Grand Prix.

“The Enstone-Viry family has played a significant part in my life, dating back to my Lotus junior program days. I feel incredibly lucky and privileged to have achieved the things I did with this team, from my first podium to my first win in Formula 1... I’ve crossed paths with so many inspiring individuals in my time here and there are too many people to thank for their hard work, passion, and dedication to the cause. But also for their kindness and support I received over the years. We had many ups and certainly some downs, but all I can say is that it was an honour racing alongside you, whether you were at the factories or trackside,” Ocon said.

The driver from Evreux emphasized his intention to inform the public about his upcoming plans. Additionally, there have been discussions about Esteban’s potential move to either Haas or Sauber.