Ocon opens up on Alpine split as he addresses struggles: “We didn’t agree on so many things”

Esteban Ocon has spoken about the recent struggles with his former team, Alpine, and why he decided to leave the French outfit at the end of 2024 after a five-year stint.

Alpine, currently 10th in the constructors’ standings, has seen vast amounts of change over the last couple of years. After the exits of team principal Otmar Szafnauer and sporting director Alan Permane in July 2023, Bruno Famin temporarily assumed the role.

Approximately a year later, the team signed Oliver Oakes as team principal and Flavio Briatore as executive advisor. However, following the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, Oakes abruptly resigned when his brother was charged with “transferring criminal property”, leaving Briatore to take on his responsibilities.

While speaking to Motorsport.com and other media in Montreal, Ocon addressed the struggles of his former team.

“You never smile to see someone struggling,” he explained. “But yeah, I mean, to me, it was very clear that I wanted to come here, for a very long time. I took my decision and it was clear that we were not aiming for the same things with the team, and that I needed a new challenge. We were not going to go forward together. We didn’t agree on so many things.

“They’ve been quick in Bahrain and some of the tracks. I mean, they’re going to be working on themselves as well. In one race, you can recover the deficit you have. So even though they’re last now, it doesn’t mean that’s where they’ll finish.

“We need to keep an eye on everyone and do the best we can on our side. But yeah, I definitely feel good here. As I said, Alpine will always remain a special place in my heart – having the winning car at home, and what we’ve achieved together. But for sure, we will erase the late part of my career there.”

Ocon joined Haas at the beginning of 2025 to drive alongside British rookie driver Oliver Bearman. The Ayao Komatsu-led team is currently 7th in the constructors’ standings, and Ocon sits in 10th in the drivers’ standings with 20 points.