Rumor: Ocon To Be Released From Alpine And Replace Sargeant In Williams After Summer Break
F1Monday, 08 July 2024 at 12:00
Sky Sports's Ted Kravitz shared the latest rumors from the F1 paddock, suggesting we might see big changes on the grid after the summer break.
Technically, the 2024 British Grand Prix marks the mid-season point as it is the 12th race weekend of a season that consists of 24 race weekends.
However, the real changes tend to take place during the summer break, which is scheduled from 29 July until 23 August—between the Belgian and Dutch Grand Prix.
There are still two race weekends before the summer break, and the performances of all the drivers will be crucial in the decisions their teams are preparing to make.
On the other hand, some F1 teams, like Alpine and Williams (according to speculations), have already decided not to continue with one of their current drivers in the future. Sky Sports's Ted Kravitz spoke to the team principal of Williams, James Vowles, and he revealed:
"He [Vowles] essentially said that circumstances have changed - 'we are continually evaluating our driver line-up, and we are open-minded towards things.'"
"I asked him for clarification, and he said, 'I have told Logan what is expected of him, and if he is not delivering, we have to look at things… But who could replace Sargeant mid-season?"
In the past few weeks, speculations have suggested that Andrea Kimi Antonelli (who won his first race in F2 during the British Grand Prix weekend) could replace Sargeant after the summer break.
However, Kravitz suggested this option is now less likely. as a new alternative could arise with Esteban Ocon's potential early release from Alpine.
"Kimi Antonelli? Unlikely. Mercedes want him to complete his Formula 2 season, but it's not impossible. Jack Doohan or Liam Lawson? Unlikely."
"What is being rumored around the paddock is that Alpine could suggest an early release for Esteban Ocon, who could go to Williams."
If Ocon really replaced Sargeant in Williams, who would then drive for Alpine? The French team's reserve driver, Jack Doohan, might apparently get a surprise opportunity.
"Alpine could get Doohan in for an early debut ahead of a potential full-time race driver next year. That swap could enable Williams to have an experienced hand, like Ocon, in their car. Maybe after the summer break."
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