Alpine announces Doohan for Abu Dhabi debut, Ocon out

Alpine has confirmed that Jack Doohan will make his Formula 1 debut for the team in the season-closing Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

As reported by Autosport after the Qatar race, discussions have been taking place between incumbent Esteban Ocon and the French manufacturer about him standing down for the final event of the season.

The Frenchman has had a troubling time in recent races, despite a podium finish in the Brazilian Grand Prix, and talks had begun about both he and the squad moving on to their 2025 plans early.

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A change of drivers now would allow Alpine to get on in preparing Doohan for the step up to a fulltime seat next year, while also freeing the way for Ocon to begin work early for his future Haas squad.

It is understood that one of the ways the deal was set in motion was for Alpine to agree to release Ocon for the post-Abu Dhabi tyre test so he could drive for Haas there in exchange for not racing this weekend.

In a press release sent on Monday, Alpine said: “The change allows Esteban to be released to Haas to drive in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi.”

Jack Doohan, Reserve Driver, Alpine F1 Team

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images

Speaking prior to the announcement being made, Alpine team principal Oliver Oakes explained that the scenario was a win-win for both parties.

“I think it comes from all sides really,” he said. “I guess you could say it's good to get Jack in early. I think you could say from Esteban’s side, it's good to move on early. I think it suits everybody.

“I think the discussion was quite natural, really and I think, honestly, Esteban has been a big part of this team as well.”

An early run for Doohan will be a massive boost in getting a head start in his preparations for next year.

Oakes added: “Does it suit both of us to do that just a bit earlier for the last round, or not? 

“And, from the other side, you could look at it as it's advantageous to get Jack in the team, working with everybody, and get those butterflies gone now, rather than next year in Australia.”

As well as racing in Abu Dhabi, Doohan will also take part in the post-season Abu Dhabi test, where we will be able to get further valuable mileage.