F1 latest updates:F1 team’s IMMEDIATE driver replacement set to terminate 2025 contract……read more
F1 team’s IMMEDIATE driver replacement set to terminate 2025 contract……read more
Controversial decisions made at the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix last weekend have had significant repercussions for several Formula 1 drivers and teams, and an FIA penalty means the constructors’ championship will now be decided at the season finale in Abu Dhabi. As it stands, McLaren and Ferrari are set to battle it out for the title, with just 21 points separating the two teams. Red Bull, who dominated the early part of the season, have now been eliminated from the title race.
In a notable development further down the standings, Alpine has reclaimed sixth place in the constructors’ championship. This position has been constantly changing between Alpine and Haas, but Alpine now holds a slender advantage, leading Haas by just five points with only one race remaining. A $50 million financial bonus is reportedly on the line for Alpine if they can secure sixth place by the end of the season in Abu Dhabi.
However, in a surprising move just before the final race, Alpine has confirmed that Esteban Ocon will be replaced by Jack Doohan for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking an unexpected shakeup. Ocon, who had been with the team for several seasons, will be replaced despite the crucial championship battle for sixth place. This decision raises many questions, particularly considering the financial stakes at play.
Adding to the intrigue is Alpine’s ongoing interest in acquiring Williams’ Franco Colapinto for the 2025 season. Colapinto, who joined F1 mid-season after Logan Sargeant’s departure from Williams, has shown great promise despite a series of misfortunes in recent races. After a solid start in his unexpected promotion to the top tier of motorsport, the 21-year-old Argentine has faced setbacks, including a non-finish in Qatar, a crash in qualifying at Las Vegas, and a spin in Brazil that ended his race. These recent misadventures have raised doubts about his readiness for a full-time F1 seat, but his talent remains evident.
Despite the recent controversies surrounding Colapinto’s on-track performances, there has been no official confirmation from Alpine or Red Bull regarding their interest in him, suggesting that the door is still open for potential negotiations. Alpine has not ruled out acquiring the young driver in the future, leaving open the possibility of a reshuffle in their driver lineup for 2025. Given that Alpine had already confirmed Ocon’s replacement for 2025, this leaves room for speculation on whether Colapinto could be a potential target for the team.
Alpine’s decision to drop Ocon with just one race remaining, despite their championship fight for sixth, has raised eyebrows. The team could be testing Jack Doohan’s potential by giving him a chance to race in the season finale. This may allow Alpine to assess whether Doohan can contribute vital points that could secure a better finish for the team in the constructors’ standings. Alternatively, this move may serve as a chance for Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore to directly compare Doohan with Colapinto, as the two young talents will be racing in the same event at Abu Dhabi. With both drivers eager to secure full-time F1 seats for 2025, the race in Abu Dhabi could become a pivotal moment in Alpine’s decision-making process.
While the decision to sack a driver who has already been signed for the 2025 season may seem harsh, it is not entirely out of the question. Colapinto’s rapid rise in F1 has impressed many fans, pundits, and sponsors. His potential to bring in substantial financial backing could make him a tempting prospect for Alpine, especially if he continues to prove himself as a capable driver. Despite Doohan’s potential contribution to Alpine’s push for sixth place, the team may ultimately weigh the long-term financial and commercial benefits that Colapinto could bring to the team.
This driver swap, made with just one race to go in the season, raises many questions about Alpine’s strategy and future plans. Will Doohan impress and cement his place for 2025, or will Colapinto’s potential outshine his? The upcoming race in Abu Dhabi will be crucial not just for the constructors’ championship, but also for the future of Alpine’s driver lineup as they look to finalize their plans for 2025.
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