Ocon’s F1 Future Hangs in Balance Awaiting Sainz’s Decision Amidst Alpine Departure

Esteban Ocon's path appears blocked as he anticipates Carlos Sainz's choice

The fate of Esteban Ocon in Formula 1 hinges on Carlos Sainz's upcoming decision for the 2025 season.

Esteban Ocon's future in Formula 1 hangs in the balance until Carlos Sainz's team decision is made clear, as reported by Sky's Craig Slater.

On Monday, Alpine disclosed their decision to end their association with Ocon after this season concludes.

Since joining the team in 2020, Ocon secured his initial podium finish and triumph with the squad.

It seems that Ocon's patience is wearing thin due to their failure to be competitive, along with deteriorating relationships, especially following an incident involving his teammate Pierre Gasly at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Slater revealed on Sky Sports News that Ocon's exit is not related to his contentious action against Gasly in Monte Carlo.

Slater mentioned, "From what I understand, it's unrelated. This situation was bound to unfold regardless. Perhaps it just accelerated the confirmation that Ocon will be departing from the team when the season concludes. It's common knowledge now that he'll be racing for the team in Canada this week, despite earlier uncertainties surrounding his participation."

"From a young age, they competed against each other; perhaps they didn't mesh well, but that's not why he's leaving at the year's close. His journey with the team has simply run its course. He's been with them for half a decade."

Regarding Ocon's career prospects, there's been significant speculation about him possibly joining Haas and Audi.

Nonetheless, the deciding factor for which team emerges might hinge on Sainz.

Sainz is rumored to be considering moves to both Audi and Williams. Should he opt for Williams, this would pave the way for Ocon to team up with Nico Hulkenberg at Audi.

Slater is of the opinion that Haas represents the most favorable option for Ocon at the moment, though he acknowledges that Valtari Bottas is a strong contender for the

"Ocon is facing challenges," Slater remarked. Under the management of Mercedes' team leader Toto Wolff, his career is somewhat directed. Had Wolff intended to position him as Lewis Hamilton's successor, it would have been accomplished by now. Unfortunately, that scenario is unlikely to unfold. At this point, it appears that most opportunities are not available to Esteban Ocon.

Could he possibly be considered for the Audi position, presently held by Sauber? Carlos Sainz has received a proposal, yet he's torn between accepting it or potentially moving to Williams, which has recently become a strong candidate for acquiring Sainz's services. His choice will essentially enable other teams to finalize their plans, potentially opening up opportunities with either Audi or Williams. However, I'm skeptical about his chances at Williams.

Currently, Haas represents the most probable option for Ocon to remain in Formula 1. He's competing with several drivers for a spot there. Oliver Bearman, a young British driver, is highly expected to join Haas the following year, as Nico Hulkenberg departs from the team to join Sauber and Audi.

This scenario would position either Valtteri Bottas, the existing driver Kevin Magnussen, or Ocon as potential choices. Should that not materialize, the alternative path could lead to the World Endurance Championship and participating in Le Mans.

Explore Further

Recent Updates

Recent Updates

Site Map

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Copying or replicating text, photos, or illustrations in full or in part is strictly prohibited in any manner.