Earlier this week, Alpine and Esteban Ocon announced that the parties would be parting ways at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season. That announcement kicked off conjecture regarding who might replace Ocon next year.
Jack Doohan to replace Esteban Ocon in FP1 at F1 Canadian Grand Prix
As part of his reserve duties with Alpine, Jack Doohan will climb into the A524 in FP1 this weekend.
Photo by Michael Potts/BSR Agency/Getty Images
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Now one of the leading candidates is getting their first crack at driving the A524.
Alpine announced Wednesday that Jack Doohan, the team’s reserve driver, would be replacing Ocon in Friday’s first practice session. Doohan is among many options to slide into Ocon’s seat next year, and the Australian driver stated he was “excited” and “grateful” for the opportunity.
“Really excited to get out on track in Montréal for FP1. It will be my first time driving at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, which I am looking forward to,” stated Doohan in the team’s media preview of the Canadian Grand Prix. “I am grateful to the team for the opportunity to get more track time, and also familiarise myself with 2024 machinery early in the season.
“This will also help with the work I am doing in the simulator, particularly at the European rounds. My focus will be on doing the best for the team and maximising the session for both drivers, looking at certain test items and understanding the new track surface.”
Team Principal Bruno Famin hailed Doohan’s work for the team in the simulator, and outlined how his feedback after FP1 could be critical for Alpine as they look to climb up the Constructors’ Championship standings.
“In Canada, we have decided to use the first mandatory young driver Free Practice 1, with Jack Doohan in the car in place of Esteban, giving him the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the A524,” stated Famin. “With Jack’s great work in the simulator in recent races, we can count on his valuable feedback in Montréal.”
As outlined above, Doohan is among the options under consideration by Alpine for the 2025 season. Mick Schumacher, who competes for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship, is another option, along with various other drivers on the current grid. But this FP1 session for Doohan is a tremendous opportunity for the young driver to stake his claim to that seat for 2025.
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