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Ocon first-lap crash ends Alpine career

Esteban Ocon was due to depart the Alpine F1 team at the end of the current season - but the partnership has come to an early conclusion.

Esteban Ocon is set to depart the Alpine F1 team early following his retirement from the Qatar Grand Prix. Ocon was eliminated on the opening lap of the race at the Lusail International Circuit following contact from Haas' Nico Hulkenberg. The Frenchman was due to exit Alpine at the end of the current campaign, having originally joined the Enstone-based team in 2020. His last race this year before his switch to Haas in 2025 was due to be the season finale in Abu Dhabi next week. However, Ocon hinted in his comments after the incident that his time with the team is now over. Asked by RacingNews365 for comment on Ocon’s quotes, a spokesperson said: “No official comment from the team.” In failing to shut down the suggestion, the indication is clear Ocon will not race in the season-ending Abu Dhabi GP next weekend. Ocon will likely be replaced by Jack Doohan, who will make his full-season debut next year with the team.

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STARTING GRID 2026 F1 Japanese Grand Prix