Alpine is reportedly planning a major shake-up ahead of the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with Jack Doohan set to replace Esteban Ocon in the team’s second car. The move comes as Alpine bids farewell to Ocon earlier than expected, following his decision to join Haas next season.

Ocon, who signed a multi-year deal with Haas earlier this year, was always set to leave Alpine at the end of 2024. However, recent reports indicate that Alpine plans to bring in Doohan, their Academy driver, for the season-ending race in Abu Dhabi, despite no official confirmation from the team yet. This would give Doohan an early opportunity to race alongside Pierre Gasly, Alpine’s retained driver, as he prepares for his full-time debut in 2025.

The rumors began circulating after the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix, where Ocon suffered a DNF after crashing out early, while Gasly finished a solid P5. Despite Alpine’s strong performance in the constructors’ standings, the situation has left Ocon with just three points more than Gasly in the drivers’ standings, fueling speculation about his future with the team.

Reflecting on his time with Alpine, Ocon recently shared his thoughts ahead of his departure: “I would like to thank the team for their hard work over this race and their hard work over the whole year,” he said. “When things weren’t going well, the engineers and mechanics stuck together, and that’s what’s most important.”

Alpine is currently in P7 in the constructors’ standings, with Ocon and Gasly still in the fight for a better position. With Haas and RB closely pursuing, the upcoming Abu Dhabi GP will be crucial for Alpine’s final standing.