Frenchman Esteban Ocon will continue to race alongside two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso following the announcement that his contract with Alpine F1 has been extended to 2024.
The driver’s place in the team predates its current name, having joined in 2020 when it was known as Renault F1.
“I’m delighted to continue with the team beyond this year and it’s a fantastic feeling to secure my future with Alpine,” said Ocon. “We’ve been progressing well together since I joined the team and I aim to continue that journey going forward.”
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The contract means that Ocon will be with the team as F1 transitions into a new era due to the implementation of massive regulations changes. The new rules are seen by many as an opportunity for changing the status quo and could be an chance for midfield teams like Alpine to move up the pecking order.
“[Ocon] is a strong asset for us now, and also going forward as we meet the challenge of the new regulations,” said Laurent Rossi, CEO of Alpine Cars. “We have every confidence in Esteban to help drive the team and the brand to the next level and meet its long-term objectives.”
Despite being just 24 years old, Ocon has a wealth of experience in F1, having made his race debut in 2016 with Manor F1 before moving to Force India for the 2017 and 2018 seasons. After losing his seat and becoming Mercedes’ reserve driver in 2019, he rejoined F1 with Renault for the 2021 season, alongside Daniel Ricciardo.
Now, together with Alonso, Ocon will be instrumental in helping Alpine F1 achieve its goals of climbing the championship rankings and racing for wins.
“There are great challenges ahead of us, especially with the new regulations in 2022. I’m sure we can hit our targets by working hard together and continuing the story,” said Ocon. “I’m really looking forward to the next chapter but, for now, we’re very much focused on this season and taking each race as it comes.”
