Who Will Steal Esteban Ocon's Seat at Alpine in 2025? Top Contenders Revealed
Alpine's surprising announcement that Esteban Ocon will leave the Enstone-based team at the end of 2024 has left the F1 universe buzzing. With Pierre Gasly poised to extend his contract, the question on everyone's mind is: who will be the next to slot in alongside the Frenchman?
Valtteri Bottas: The Experienced Veteran
Valtteri Bottas has made no secret of his ambitions to stay in F1, even as Sauber leans towards a new lineup featuring Nico Hulkenberg and potentially Carlos Sainz. Despite some strong performances, Bottas has faced the misfortune of Sauber's perennial struggles, leaving him without points this season. However, Bottas' vast experience and consistent qualifying performances suggest that age hasn’t slowed him down. The Finn is actively exploring options to remain on the grid, with Williams reported as a serious contender. His robust resume, featuring 230 Grand Prix starts and essential years spent with Mercedes, makes him an attractive candidate for Alpine, especially as the team aims to regain its competitive edge in the upcoming 2025 regulations shift.
Zhou Guanyu: The Rising Star
Not to be outdone, Zhou Guanyu is also in contention. Despite his struggles this season and a series of Q1 eliminations, Zhou brings significant sponsor revenue and a strong background connection with Renault through Chinese manufacturer Geely. His previous stint as a development driver for Renault could make him an appealing candidate for Alpine. The Chinese driver’s ongoing relationship with Automated Chinese brands and the F1 community’s eagerness for a Chinese contender provide him with a unique edge.
Jack Doohan: The Insider
Jack Doohan is the internal candidate for the Alpine seat. Unlike some other reserve drivers, Doohan has had a robust testing program and has been involved with Alpine since 2022. Although he might not have the most compelling results in the lower formulas, his familiarity with the team and his performances as a reserve driver may make him a compelling option. Alpine’s history of grooming talent through its Empire Driver Academies could finally see a payout, should they decide to promote Doohan. Team Principal Bruno Famin's recent conversation with Doohan in Monaco has added fuel to the speculation.
Mick Schumacher: The Comeback Kid
Mick Schumacher, currently a reserve driver for Mercedes and WEC driver for Alpine, is also angling for a return to F1. After a tumultuous stint at Haas, Schumacher has impressed in the WEC circuits and remains committed to a future in Formula 1. Putting his focus on other motorsport disciplines, his newfound experience could make him a more rounded racer, potentially attracting Alpine’s interest. Famin himself has praised Schumacher, labeling him as “incredible,” and alluding to the advantage his prior F1 experience gives him over other contenders.
Yuki Tsunoda: The Dark Horse
Finally, there's Yuki Tsunoda. While an unconventional choice, Tsunoda has showcased a remarkable performance this season, with consistent points finishes. Despite this, he remains a long shot for the primary Red Bull team, making him available for other opportunities. His camaraderie with Gasly and ambitions beyond Red Bull Racing, make him a viable candidate for Alpine’s consideration.
With Alpine targeting a swift resolution to its 2025 lineup, the speculation is sure to heighten in the coming months. Will Bottas’ experience, Zhou’s sponsorship, Doohan’s internal rapport, Schumacher’s redemption story, or Tsunoda’s rising performance clinch the seat? Only time will tell.