Who Will Replace Esteban Ocon at Alpine F1 in 2025?
Image Credit: Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
It has been a difficult season for the Alpine team so far. The French team has significantly dropped its performance level compared to the previous season. In addition, longtime driver Esteban Ocon will leave the team at the end of the year. His departure leaves people pondering who will replace the Frenchman in 2025.
Mick Schumacher
Mick Schumacher has yet to realize his full potential in Formula One. There was a lot of pressure going into the German's debut because of his last name. He is a Formula 2 champion and had good outings with the Haas team. Yet, his performances were inconsistent, and he was ultimately let go by the American team. Schumacher was the Mercedes reserve driver for a year and was praised for the role. He now has a strong relationship with Alpine because he races for the team in a different category. Schumacher has shown a lot of potential; if given time, he could become a great driver.
Daniel Ricciardo
Daniel Ricciardo's future is up in the air since his return to Formula One in the middle of last year. It could either go very well for the Australian or not. He is racing for Team RB, yet it has been heavily rumored that he could replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull for the rest of 2024. Staying with Team RB is looking less likely as many people believe it is Liam Lawson's time to compete at the pinnacle of motorsport. If there are no options inside the Red Bull family, then Alpine could be a great alternative. Ricciardo has shown he can still produce quality performances behind the wheel. The 35-year-old could be a great teammate alongside Pierre Gasly. One significant fact that could play into it is whether there is any bad blood after Ricciardo's departure in 2021.
Jack Doohan
The young Australian driver has often been regarded as one of the better drivers in the junior category. Now would be the perfect time for Alpine to take on a rookie as they are in the middle of rebuilding the team, which means there will be less pressure on a younger driver. Doohan has tremendous talent in racing cars, and his rare speed is undeniable. Furthermore, he will be used to how the team operates as Doohan has been in the Alpine driver program for many years. The Australian is a fantastic talent with a load of potential, and he deserves a race seat.
The 2025 driver market is promising, and it will be interesting to see Alpine's moves.
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