Reserve driver Jack Doohan, who is set to become an official Alpine driver in 2025, will compete in the final race of the season this weekend in Abu Dhabi with the BWT Alpine F1 Team, replacing Esteban Ocon, according to a statement from the team on Friday.

This decision means Esteban Ocon won’t get the chance to bid farewell on track to the team he’s raced with for the past five years, a tenure that included one victory and two podium finishes. On June 3, it was announced that the French driver and Alpine would part ways at the end of the season. The team clarified that this move allows Ocon to participate in post-season testing with Haas, his new team for 2024.

Jack Doohan: The new generation

Jack Doohan, a 21-year-old Australian and son of former motorcycle racing legend Mick Doohan, will step in for Ocon in this final race, sporting the number 61. He will also take part in the Abu Dhabi test sessions, solidifying his place in Alpine’s official lineup alongside Pierre Gasly for the upcoming season.

Honoring Ocon’s legacy

Alpine publicly thanked Esteban Ocon via a post on X, highlighting his contributions to the team, particularly his historic victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix. Ocon’s win was notably supported by Fernando Alonso’s staunch defense against Lewis Hamilton. This decision marks the end of a significant chapter for both the French driver and the Alpine team.