Alpine’s Boss Ensures Equal Treatment for Esteban Ocon Despite Impending Exit
In a recent interview with Autosport, Alpine’s team principal Bruno Famin has assured that Esteban Ocon will receive equal treatment across the remainder of the 2024 Formula 1 season, despite his confirmed departure from the team at the end of the year. This confirmation comes after the Canadian Grand Prix, where Ocon expressed frustration over not being reinstated to ninth place, having given up a spot to allow teammate Pierre Gasly to pursue Daniel Ricciardo.
The latest controversy within the Enstone-based squad adds to the tensions that still linger from the Monaco Grand Prix, where Ocon faced criticism for his first-lap collision with Gasly. However, Famin has emphasized that Ocon’s prospects will not be compromised, and his support within the team will remain unchanged for the remainder of the season.
“It has been sorted, but we had 16 and we now 15 races to go now.”
Famin further assured Ocon, who has also revealed that he has been running a heavier car than his compatriot, that the team’s support would remain unwavering.
“I think Esteban can count on all the team to help him to get the best result, because Esteban having the best result is helping the team having the best possible result.”
Famin reiterated that the team’s primary focus is on achieving the best possible result, and Ocon’s involvement is crucial to that goal.
“And we count on Esteban to bring everything he can bring to the team. The team is everybody within the team: driver, mechanic, engineer – everybody has to bring his own to make the best possible result for the team. And the driver is part of the team.”
The Frenchman’s confirmation is crucial, given Alpine’s current standing in the Formula 1 standings. With both cars finishing in the points for the first time this season at the Canadian Grand Prix, the team has climbed up to eighth place, just two points behind Haas in seventh. Famin stressed that hindering one car’s chances would be counterproductive to the team’s overall goals.
“We will not put aside Esteban at all,” he said. “He will have exactly the same condition as Pierre. They are on the same level, same status.”
When questioned about potential concerns over Ocon’s behavior, given his future lies outside Alpine, Famin seemed unfazed.
“I don’t worry more than before…”
With the team focused on moving up the ranks, Famin’s assurances are crucial in maintaining a united front and securing the best possible results for Alpine in the remaining 15 races of the 2024 Formula 1 season.
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