P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Esteban Ocon has moved to clear up suggestions he is being sidelined for the Canadian Grand Prix first practice as a punishment for the incident with Pierre Gasly in Monaco, with Jack Doohan taking over his Alpine.
Esteban Ocon has clarified that Alpine is not sidelining him as a punishment for FP1 at the Canadian Grand Prix, with Jack Doohan taking his place for the practice hour.
After the incident with teammate Pierre Gasly at the Monaco Grand Prix, Alpine’s team principal hinted at “consequences” for Ocon but the rumors of him being benched for the Montreal round were dispelled by Ocon.
Despite confirming he will leave the team at the end of the season, Ocon explained his absence from FP1 as part of the team strategy to give rookie drivers practice time, which is customary in F1.
Alpine decided to utilize one of its mandated rookie FP1 sessions early in the season due to the track conditions in Canada and the anticipated car improvements later in the year.
Ocon’s future in F1 beyond 2025 is uncertain as he prepares to depart from Alpine.
