Ocon's Fury: Why Alpine's Team Orders in Canada Are Sparking Controversy
The 2024 Canadian Grand Prix may have concluded with Alpine securing a double points finish, but it left Esteban Ocon fuming over what he describes as “nonsense” team orders. While the fans reveled in the wet-to-dry conditions and thrilling overtakes, tensions were bubbling under the surface at Alpine's garage. Despite the points haul, Ocon was visibly distraught over the decision that forced him to allow teammate Pierre Gasly to pass in the final laps.
The Incident Unfolds
The race started under damp conditions, with the track gradually drying as the laps progressed. Logan Sargeant's crash brought out the Safety Car, setting the stage for strategic gambles. Pierre Gasly seized the initiative by switching to slick tires early, quickly finding pace on the drying circuit.
As the race neared its climax, both Alpine cars found themselves in points-paying positions. However, with only a few laps to go, the team ordered Ocon to let Gasly pass, hoping the latter could chase down Daniel Ricciardo for P8. According to the team's statement, Ocon's car had an energy management problem, making Gasly the better bet strategically.
A Decision That Didn't Pay Off
On Lap 69, Ocon obeyed the order, allowing Gasly to pass. Yet, by then, Ricciardo had built an insurmountable gap, making Gasly's chase futile. To compound matters, exchanging positions back would have been risky with the Haas of Nico Hulkenberg breathing down Ocon's neck. Consequently, the race ended with Gasly in P9 and Ocon in P10.
In a post-race interview with Sky Sports F1, Ocon did not mince words. “I’m happy for the team to score with both cars, but the order should have been reversed. I was told to let Pierre past with only a couple of laps left, making the call nonsensical. Yet, I’ve done my job as a team player,” Ocon expressed, his frustration evident.
What Lies Ahead for Ocon?
The backdrop to this drama is Ocon's impending departure from Alpine, announced just ahead of the Montreal weekend. When questioned if this influenced the team’s decision, Ocon remained diplomatic, saying, “We’ll let the benefit of the doubt.”
Further elaborating on F1 TV, he added, “I believe being too nice is not the right attitude in Formula 1, but I showed I’m a team player, and that’s what matters.” Ocon's words hint at underlying issues within the team dynamic, raising questions about Alpine's internal management.
Gasly's Perspective
For his part, Gasly was elated with the double points finish, especially after a chaotic start where he tangled with Sergio Perez of Red Bull. Reflecting on the race, Gasly said, “We had a small touch with Checo that nearly ended my race, but we managed to recover well. Despite the early switch to hard tires being risky, it ultimately paid off.”
Gasly emphasized the day's success for the team, downplaying the controversy. “I think the teamwork was good at the end. The goal was to attack Ricciardo, which took longer to materialize, but it’s no big deal. This should not be a story; it was a very good day for the team as we scored points with both cars,” he stated.
The Road Ahead for Alpine
This internal discord at Alpine comes at a pivotal time, with both drivers aiming to accrue as many points as possible before Ocon's exit at the end of the season. While Gasly remains optimistic, acknowledging the unexpected double points finish, Ocon's reservations indicate that all is not well within the team.
The coming races will undoubtedly offer more clarity on how Alpine manages its drivers and whether Ocon can find peace and performance harmony in his remaining time with the team. As Formula 1 continues to offer high-speed drama both on and off the track, the Ocon-Gasly dynamic will be one to watch.