What next for Ocon?
Esteban Ocon’s comments today mean he is ‘unofficially officially’ a free agent for 2027, with Haas set to replace the one time Grand Prix winner. But what next for him?
Ocon, 30, has become one of F1’s veterans, having raced in the series since 2016 (bar one season) with Manor, Force India, Racing Point, Renault, Alpine and Haas as well as serving as reserve for Lotus and Mercedes, but now is expected to find himself without an F1 drive for 2027.
As a well known driver with Grand Prix winning and podium experience as well as being a consistently consistent driver, he’s an attractive option for many - in and out of Formula 1 - but where is will we see him? I’ve looked at a few options.
WEC (World Endurance Championship)
Sportscar teams like consistency in their drivers and that’s something Ocon could very well bring. However, a 10 race stint, 10 years ago in DTM is his only sports car experience which could put some teams off, however he could be a big enough name that that doesn’t matter. McLaren are still looking for a name to join theirs Hypercar campaign - could Ocon fit the mould?
IndyCar
Like F1, seats fill up fast. A few still remain however and Ocon would be an exciting addition to the field. Space still exists at the Dale Coyne team where he could link up with fellow ex-Haas and Renault man, Romain Grosjean for an all French line up, or join the renowned AJ Foyt team, while two slots at Juncos are still open.
Formula E
Multiple spaces in Formula E are still available and the rumour mill has gone quiet - suggesting teams have maybe done the work needed to get their drivers signed for 26/27. But never say never, right? Having never sampled the series, he’d be a gamble - but he’d be appealing to many, if not all in the particular paddock.
The F1 reserve
Regardless what happens, I think it’s likely a team will snap up the services of Ocon as a reserve. A man with 194 Grand Prix starts is invaluable to any team that’ll have him; if I’m Audi, Williams, Aston Martin or anyone similar, I’d be seeing what he’s happy to help with.
The ‘not impossible’
F1 is ruthless. It’s very possible the best thing Ocon can do is keep himself fit and ready to jump in at late notice; á la Hülkenberg 2020. Going into year two, Cadillac’s drivers will be under immense scrutiny to step forward, while Williams will also be looking for improvements - and Ocon is a driver Team Principal James Vowles knows well from his time at Mercedes, while Williams’ higher ups have long admired the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix winner.
Where do you see the Frenchman ending up?
📸Image credits: Formula Motorsport Limited, Cadillac F1 Team, Formula E.
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