Alpine's Grand Driver Dilemma: Why the Future is Bright Despite Ocon's Departure
Alpine's current predicament might seem like a crisis to some, but team boss Bruno Famin looks at it as a golden opportunity. With Esteban Ocon confirmed to depart at the end of the 2024 season, Alpine finds itself at a crossroads. However, Famin remains unfazed and is keenly optimistic about the future, pointing to their impressive pool of junior drivers, especially Jack Doohan and Victor Martins.
A Seat Up for Grabs in 2025
Ocon's departure leaves at least one coveted seat available for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The anticipated split was mutual and amicable, with both parties agreeing to part ways after five years. As the 2024 season progresses, the focus shifts towards who might fill this void, with Pierre Gasly's future also hanging in the balance.
At the Monaco Grand Prix, which saw a dramatic clash between Ocon and Gasly, Famin was inundated with questions about the team's plans. While he indicated that Alpine would have been content to continue with both drivers, he emphasized the wealth of talent waiting in the wings.
The Rising Stars: Doohan and Martins
Australian Jack Doohan, 21, and Frenchman Victor Martins, 22, are the two names on everyone's lips. Doohan, the son of former 500cc motorcycle world champion Mick Doohan, joined Alpine Academy in 2022. Since then, he has climbed the ranks swiftly, finishing third in last year’s Formula 2 standings and securing his role as Alpine's reserve driver for the 2024 season.
Martins, a former Formula Renault Eurocup and FIA Formula 3 champion, has also been a key figure in Alpine's junior lineup. After a commendable season in F3, Martins is currently placing fifth in his rookie Formula 2 campaign. With both drivers showcasing immense potential, Famin expresses confidence in their abilities.
“We want to take our time and we have very good drivers in our academy, with Jack and with Victor especially, and we have no stress,” commented Famin, emphasizing the team's strategic approach in grooming these young talents.
Focus on Team Improvement
Beyond the immediate driver concerns, Famin insists that Alpine's priority remains on team improvement. With only two points amassed over the first eight rounds, resulting in a ninth-place standing in the constructors’ championship, Alpine needs more than just driver excellence to turn their fortunes around. The recent appointment of experienced engineer David Sanchez, known for his stints at McLaren and Ferrari, comes as a significant boost.
“Where I’m satisfied is with the reaction of the team, because the car is what everybody knows at the start of the season, but we have been able to bring earlier than planned upgrades to come back to the minimum weight, and that was very good,” said Famin.
The Road Ahead
Alpine is entering the second phase of their car's development, with Sanchez playing a pivotal role. His presence has already started to create a positive mindset within the team, paving the way for strategic advancements in their car’s performance.
“Now we need to switch to the second phase of the development of that car. You know that we have worked quite a lot in understanding why we were in such a situation. Having David Sanchez onboard will help us to go faster in the recovery, which is what we hope,” Famin added.
The sentiment at Alpine is one of calculated optimism. The team is not just reacting to the challenges but proactively setting the stage for a stronger future. Whether it's securing top-tier talent from their academy or leveraging the expertise of seasoned engineers, Alpine is crafting a blueprint for long-term success. For Famin and his team, the future is not just bright; it's meticulously planned with an eye on the podium.