Doohan to Replace Ocon as Early Alpine Shake-Up Looms

Esteban Ocon’s early departure paves the way for Jack Doohan’s debut, with an official announcement expected tomorrow.

Esteban Ocon will leave Alpine F1 one race before the end of his contract, with Jack Doohan set to replace him at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The team has declined to officially confirm the news tonight (the announcement is expected tomorrow), but Oliver Oakes, pressed by journalists during his media session, eventually admitted it “might make sense.”

“I think there has been a discussion, yes. I don’t think there’s been a definitive answer yet, but it’s been talked about. It’s obviously a bit complex because, while he’s with our team, he is also contractually a Mercedes junior, or driver. And naturally, he would also prefer to be released earlier.”

“I think it’s really coming from all sides. You could say it’s good to have Jack in early. You could also say it’s good for Esteban to leave early. I think it works for everyone. The discussion was quite natural, really. Honestly, Esteban has also been a key part of this team. From both sides, it suits the other.”

Oakes noted that discussions about Ocon’s future between Mercedes CEO Toto Wolff and Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore should be relatively straightforward.

“I suppose you could say that past disagreements have a role to play. But I think what’s most important is that this is a natural progression—he’s moving on to Haas next year.”

“Does it work for all of us to do this a bit earlier for the final race, or not? On the other hand, you could also argue it’s beneficial to have Jack integrated into the team now, working with everyone and easing the pressure of his first race—rather than facing it next year at home in Australia.”

“Perhaps it seems to suit everyone; let’s discuss it. That doesn’t mean it needs to be confirmed one way or the other. I believe Toto and Flavio have a very good relationship, so I’m sure they’ll do what’s right for both parties.”

Toto Wolff was more direct, stating there would be further discussions with Alpine on Monday to finalize the matter.

“There is first a contractual relationship between Esteban, us, and Alpine regarding his driver services, and that contract expires at the end of the year. That’s the foundation.”

“And then, if you accept that, for the sake of the future, there’s a better solution that allows Esteban to prepare earlier and better for Haas—and if that hinges on racing in Abu Dhabi or not—that’s something we discussed today and will finalize tomorrow.”