Jack Doohan is set to take over for Esteban Ocon at Alpine for the season’s final Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi this weekend. This unexpected change aligns with Ocon’s shift to Haas for post-season testing.
Jack Doohan, an emerging talent in Formula 1 and the son of five-time MotoGP champion Mick Doohan, will make his debut with Alpine as a replacement for Esteban Ocon. The decision to allow Ocon an early exit from his contract with Alpine was mutually beneficial, providing him the opportunity to transition into his new role with Haas. As Ocon prepares for the post-season test scheduled on December 10, Doohan will use this chance to familiarize himself with the dynamics of a Grand Prix weekend.
This strategic move comes amid strained relations between Ocon and Alpine, exacerbated by a collision with his teammate Pierre Gasly at the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this season. Although Ocon’s tenure with Alpine, including a notable victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix and podium finishes in Monaco and Brazil, is drawing to a close, his contributions to the team are acknowledged by Alpine in their recent statements.
Alpine expressed gratitude towards Ocon, highlighting his role in securing Alpine’s first Formula 1 win since the rebranding from Renault in 2021. The team’s decision underscores the importance of granting athletes the freedom to prepare adequately for upcoming challenges and new environments.
Doohan’s early involvement with Alpine is seen as a valuable preparatory experience ahead of his official 2025 season start, particularly with the inaugural race being held in his hometown of Melbourne. This development not only bolsters Doohan’s exposure to high-level competition but also aligns with Alpine’s future aspirations in Formula 1.
Jack Doohan’s entry at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks a significant step in both his career and the strategic evolution of the Alpine racing team. As Esteban Ocon pivots to new challenges with Haas, Alpine looks to the future with an eye on nurturing new talent — a move reflective of the ever-adaptive nature of the Formula 1 landscape.
Source: BBC
