F1 Today | Esteban Ocon leaves Alpine and Red Bull options

Ocon to leave Alpine at the end of 2024

It has been announced that Esteban Ocon will be leaving Alpine at the end of the 2024 season. Although it wasn't strictly mentioned, Ocon's clash with teammate and long-time rival Pierre Gasly in Monaco might've been the last straw for the Enstone team. This leaves Ocon unemployed for the 2025 season. Where can the Frenchman go now? Ocon will be hoping for an opportunity with Mercedes, but F2 driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli has been linked heavily with the Silver Arrows. Long-time Mercedes junior Ocon may have to look elsewhere but might be considered by Mercedes as the more experienced option. The 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix winner has been linked with Haas and Sauber, too. Ocon has said himself on social media that his future will be announced in due course. His record of clashes with his teammates may hinder his 2025 possibilities, but he is still likely to secure an F1 seat next year.

Should Red Bull keep Perez?

Sergio Perez has been previously criticised for his performance alongside Max Verstappen, so does he truly deserve to stay with the reining world champions? Christian Horner is fond of 'Checo', and so is Max Verstappen, who is content there is not an internal battle at Red Bull, giving him the chance to focus on his own title aspirations. Red Bull remains confident in the Mexican. There are no candidates within the Red Bull organisation ready to succeed Perez. Daniel Ricciardo has been struggling with his form for years, and Honda protégée Yuki Tsunoda never seems to be taken seriously. Liam Lawson needs to gain F1 experience first, leaving Perez the only suitable driver on the list. Has Red Bull made the right call? After all, Perez is an extremely marketable driver in Latin America.

Piastri is ready to fight for race wins

Oscar Piastri has made quite the impression at McLaren but is yet to secure his first Grand Prix win. After finishing second at the Monaco Grand Prix, Piastri is confident he can fight for multiple race victories. Speaking on the Stompcast with Dr Alex George podcast, the Aussie says he is aiming "To win races and win championships." He also says that McLaren is getting 'closer and closer' to securing the constructors title. The three-time podium sitter is looking to play an important role in McLaren's season-long battle with Ferrari and Red Bull.