Esteban Ocon has received the go-ahead from Alpine to test with his 2025 team, Haas, even before his current contract expires.
Esteban Ocon has received the go-ahead from Alpine to test with his 2025 team, Haas, even before his current contract expires.
The French driver will have his first experience in the Ferrari-powered 2024 Haas at the post-season Abu Dhabi test.
“This will be the first time Esteban will drive our car, which is important because obviously the regulations are stable,” said Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu.
“So next year’s car will be an evolution of this one. So it’s good that he gets a taste of this car before January, or as early as possible, to see how our car is, its strengths and weaknesses.”
Komatsu added, “Then, if he has any feedback, we can continue to work on it during development.”
However, one setback for the Haas team is that its other 2025 driver, Oliver Bearman, who has substituted for Ferrari and Haas this season, is no longer eligible for additional Friday practice sessions with either team this year due to the rookie-restrictive regulations.
In addition to Ocon’s early transition, Komatsu has confirmed that Nico Hulkenberg, who is set to join Sauber-Audi in 2025, will also participate in the Abu Dhabi test for his future team.
“If you ask me, Nico can drive for Sauber,” Komatsu remarked. “There is no point in blocking him.”
