Esteban Ocon has admitted his premature departure from Alpine before the last race of the 2024 Formula 1 season is “not how I wanted things to end” with the team.
Alpine announced earlier this week that Ocon will not compete in the weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Jack Doohan, who will replace him in 2025, will race instead.
The rumours gathered momentum once last weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix concluded, with the move allowing Ocon to drive for Haas in the post-season test next week.
Earlier this term Ocon chose to bring the curtain down on his extensive association with the Enstone-based squad, which is embroiled in a battle with Haas over sixth.
In a statement on social media, Ocon expressed regret at not having the chance to say farewell to Alpine, as he unveiled the tribute helmet that he had planned to use.
“I would like to first and foremost thank the mechanics and engineers across all functions at the track, Enstone, and Viry-Châtillon who have raced alongside me these last five seasons,” Ocon said. “We have shared so much together, and I am proud to call many of you my friends.
I leave Alpine/Renault with great memories and the pride of having been the driver who brought the team’s best results since its return to the sport, climbing the top two steps of the podium in Bahrain, Hungary, and Brazil. It was also an honour to play a part in finishing P4 in the Constructors’ Championship in 2022.
“I know how much all of those moments meant for everybody and feeling that sense of achievement and joy alongside the team is what I am taking away with me.
“It has not been an easy year on track for the team and the second part of the season has been especially difficult. For various reasons.
“I do not regret a single thing knowing I gave it 100% every single session. Like I always have.
“To the hundreds of hard-working men and women at Enstone and Viry, I apologise that I will not be able come see you in person and have a proper farewell.
“As you know, 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. That said, the world of F1 is small and I am sure I will see many of you again soon.
“I would also like to wish nothing but great things to my friend Jack as he takes this next big step in his career at this week’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.”
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