Ocon: Alpine and I agree to part ways at the end of 2024 F1 season

This is what Ocon said in a statement on social media: "BWT Alpine F1 Team and I have agreed together to part ways at the end of the 2024 F1 season.

"The Enstone-Viry family has played a significant part in my life, dating back to my Lotus junior programme days. I feel incredibly lucky and privileged to have achieved the things I did with this team, from my first podium to my first win in Formula 1. These achievements truly were dreams come true.

"I’ve crossed paths with so many inspiring individuals in my time here and there are too many people to thank for their hard work, passion, and dedication to the cause. But also for their kindness and support I received over the years. We had many ups and certainly some downs, but all I can say is that it was an honour racing alongside you, whether you were at the factories or trackside.

"Still, there is a long way to go this season and my focus and energy is 100% dedicated to this team and the work we need to do together to move forward and maximise our results on track.

"Like many drivers this season, a lot has been said about my future beyond 2024. News will be announced in due course."

In French, Ocon concluded: "To all the French supporters who have been behind me and this team for all these years. Thank you so much for your support and love, I hope I can continue to make you proud."

While the parting of ways appears amicable. Ocon did himself no favours by banging into the back of his teammate Pierre Gasly during the opening lap of the Monaco Grand Prix.

Ocon eliminated himself on the spot and Gasly somehow survived to finish P10. Team principal Bruno Famin promised there would be consequences for the unnecessary and downright stupid contact. While a one or two-race suspension was bandied about, the Alpine bosses drew on the guillotine to end Ocon's career with them.

Of the departing Ocon, Famin said in the team statement: “We would like to firstly thank Esteban for his commitment to the team for the past five years. During his time, we have celebrated some fantastic moments together, the best of which coming at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix with a memorable race win.

We still have 16 races to complete in 2024 together with a clear objective: to continue to work tirelessly as a team to push for the best on-track results. We wish Esteban the very best for the next chapter of his driving career when that moment comes," added Famin.

Preamble to Ocon's departure in the Alpine press release was: "BWT Alpine F1 Team and Esteban Ocon have agreed together to part ways at the end of the 2024 FIA Formula 1 World Championship season, the conclusion of the Frenchman’s contract with the team.

"It brings a five-year collaboration between the team and Esteban to a close, during which, Alpine and Esteban recorded their first Grand Prix victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, a landmark moment for the brand, the team, and Esteban himself.

"Esteban recorded two further podiums during his five years, achieving second place at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, his first visit to the rostrum in Formula 1, and the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix where he finished in third place."

"Ocon achieved a best finish of eighth in the 2022 Drivers’ Championship, contributing to the team’s fourth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship that year. The team looks forward to continuing its hard work with Esteban for the remainder of the 2024 season and wishes him the best in his future endeavours."

As for his future, Ocon has been managed by Mercedes boss Toto Wolff and might be an option for Mercedes. While talk of a deal with Haas for 2025 and beyond, alongside Ferrari protege Oliver Bearman is reported by Joe Saward as a Silly Season thing.

With a seat at Mercedes still free, plus a host of drivers out of contract come the end of this season. The driver market has been highly volatile all year. It began in February when Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton confirmed their deal for 2025.

Whatever the case, the team that signs Ocon should be braced for conflict between their drivers, very stupid moves - normally at teammates - which explains why none of them has a good thing to say about 27-year-old Esteban.

StatsF1 show that Ocon made his F1 debut at the 2016 Belgian Grand Prix. Since then he has made 141 starts, and has finished on the podium three times, once as a winner. He has driven for Manor, Renault, Force India and Alpine.