Esteban Ocon and Alpine’s relationship has come to an abrupt end this week. His departure from Enstone is the latest of several poorly managed situations at Alpine. Thankfully for Ocon, multiple teams are understood to be interested in his services. This gives the Frenchman some important decisions to make ahead of 2025.
Since the last Grand Prix in Monaco, the F1 news surrounding Ocon has not been especially positive. His deteriorating relationship with Alpine, alongside criticisms of his driving against teammates, has taken centre stage.
However, another narrative is emerging to counter this generally negative rhetoric. When Bruno Famin’s team announced the Grand Prix winner’s departure, there was significant backlash on social media. After all, regardless of the tensions with his teammate, Ocon has been Alpine’s best-performing driver in 2024.
Scapegoating the Frenchman after one incident (given that Gasly committed a more costly error last year in Australia) is not being received well. The 27-year-old is still a capable driver, and this is being shown by interest from teams in the market.
Sauber, Haas among possible destinations for Ocon
Of course, much of the focus in the last two weeks has been on the Monaco incident. The reality, however, is that Alpine’s willingness to let Ocon go is motivated by activities below the surface that have been ongoing for months.
Since the A524’s pre-season launch in February, Ocon’s intentions in the market have been clear. On multiple occasions, he has reiterated his affiliations with Mercedes. This posturing in interviews with the media provides a small glimpse into his proactive involvement in negotiations this year.
Formu1a.uno confirmed the Frenchman is already in talks with Haas. Ayao Komatsu’s team is exploring many options ahead of 2025, with Kevin Magnussen increasingly at risk of losing his seat.
For some, Ocon represents an objective improvement on the Danish driver. Although this is ultimately for Haas to determine, the American team is undeniably an option.
Meanwhile, Audi-owned Sauber is also a possibility. The Hinwil-based outfit has been at the centre of transfer marker discussions for most of the year.
With Hico Hulkenberg already signed, Sauber are looking for another driver with speed and experience. Ocon fits both these criteria and would complete a very strong duo in the team.
Reports of Sauber’s interest in Esteban Ocon first emerged at the beginning of 2024. It is no secret that Andreas Seidl is working diligently to position his team in the best possible way ahead of the 2026 regulations – which will be announced later today.
With that said, it must be emphasised that Sauber are linked to several drivers. The definitive first option for the Swiss team is Carlos Sainz. If the Spaniard elects to drive elsewhere, Ocon becomes one of many candidates with a fighting chance.
Over the next few weeks, more clarity should emerge on the 2025 grid.
