Alpine Boss Famin Wanted to Suspend Ocon Over Monaco GP Collision with Teammate Gasly
As reported by L’Équipe, Alpine team principal Bruno Famin had intended to suspend Esteban Ocon for the Canadian Grand Prix following his collision with teammate Pierre Gasly during the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. The incident, which occurred on the opening lap, almost ruined both drivers’ prospects and sparked scathing criticism from the team.
Ocon’s ambitious attempt to pass Gasly into Portier resulted in a puncture for the French driver and terminal damage to Ocon’s A524. Although Gasly was able to restart the race after a red flag, he was incensed that Ocon had risked compromising both drivers’ races, citing that Ocon had defied an earlier team arrangement.
Famin’s strong reaction, as captured by French television, suggested that action would be taken against Ocon, with some interpreting it as a potential suspension for an entire race weekend. According to L’Équipe, Famin indeed wanted to impose such a measure, installing reserve driver Jack Doohan as Ocon’s replacement in Canada.
However, the report states that such a decision would have required approval from Alpine’s lawyers to avoid a legal case. The team was keen to avoid a repeat of the Oscar Piastri saga in mid-2022, when the Contract Recognition Board sided with the Australian driver’s move to McLaren.
Alpine’s Revised Legal Approach
Alpine’s revised legal team, advised by established lawyer Caroline McGrory, cautioned against the plan, citing the risk of Ocon potentially turning up to Montreal with a bailiff. Instead, Ocon will serve the five-place grid drop handed down by the stewards in Monaco and face numerous questions regarding his future amidst Alpine’s announcement that he will vacate his position in 2025.
Ocon’s chances of adding to his single point this term will be harder still, as Alpine continues to struggle with competitiveness in its 2024 package. Ocon’s future is uncertain, with talks underway with Haas to replace either Nico Hulkenberg or Kevin Magnussen. He is also a candidate to partner Hulkenberg at Sauber or slot in alongside Alex Albon at Williams.
This weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix will be crucial for Ocon, as he navigates the challenges of a difficult season and an uncertain future in the world of Formula 1.
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