Ocon expresses disappointment over Alpine exit ahead of Abu Dhabi GP

DOHA: Esteban Ocon has expressed regret over the abrupt conclusion of his time with Alpine, ahead of the Formula One season finale at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. The French driver, who has been a mainstay at the Renault-owned team, will not race this weekend after Alpine announced his replacement by Australian reserve Jack Doohan, making his race debut on Sunday.

Ocon, set to join Haas next season, took to Instagram to share his feelings about the unexpected turn of events. “To the hundreds of hard-working men and women at Enstone and Viry, I apologise that I will not be able to come see you in person and have a proper farewell,” he said, acknowledging the challenges of the season.

The switch was presented as a practical move to allow Ocon to begin preparations with Haas, participating in post-season testing for his new team. However, the 27-year-old admitted the sudden end was far from his preference. “The plan was always to race one last time this weekend and personally say goodbye to you all next week. I was looking forward to both of those things. This is not how I wanted things to end,” he added.

Despite the disappointment, Ocon expressed optimism about future encounters in the paddock. “The world of F1 is small and I am sure I will see many of you again soon,” he concluded.