French driver Esteban Ocon is joining American team Haas for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The move redraws the starting grid and leaves a few spots still to be filled. Here’s a look at the moves underway and the options for drivers looking for a seat.
Haas relies on experience and youth
Haas has confirmed its new driver pairing for 2025. Esteban Ocon, with his F1 experience, will team up with young prodigy Oliver Bearman. This partnership promises to combine experience and freshness within the American team. Ocon, who is leaving Alpine after five seasons, says he is “excited” about joining Haas. He particularly appreciates the “ambition and work ethic” of his new team. The Frenchman will be reunited with Ayao Komatsu, the team principal he has known since his F1 debut at Lotus.
Ocon’s journey in Formula 1
Esteban Ocon has played for several teams since his debut in 2016:
- Manor Racing (2016)
- Force India / Racing Point (2017-2018)
- Renault / Alpine (2020-2024)
His track record includes a memorable victory at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix and two podiums. However, his reputation has sometimes been tarnished by clashes with his teammates, notably Fernando Alonso and Pierre Gasly.
Seats still available for 2025
With Ocon confirmed at Haas, all that remains is five buckets to be filled for the 2025 season. Among the drivers looking for a drive, Carlos Sainz is probably the most prominent. The options for Sainz seem to be reduced to: 1. Mercedes : The German team is still hesitating over Lewis Hamilton‘s replacement. Andrea Kimi Antonelli, a 17-year-old young hopeful, was expected but could ultimately make his mark at Williams. 2. Alpine : The arrival of Flavio Briatore at the head of the French team could open a door for Sainz. 3. Williams : A team on the rise looking to replace Logan Sargeant. 4. Sauber Stake F1 (future Audi): The team has a free seat alongside Nico Hulkenberg, but his current performances could slow down Sainz. 5. Visa Cash RB : Red Bull‘s sister team also has a spot, but it seems less likely for a driver of Sainz’s calibre.
The Red Bull case
An unexpected option could arise if Red Bull decide to part ways with Sergio Perez due to his lackluster performances. In that scenario, Sainz could be considered as a potential replacement, although Daniel Ricciardo is also in the running.
Sainz’s strategy
Faced with these options, Carlos Sainz is taking a cautious approach. At the Belgian Grand Prix press conference, he said: “My priority is to be world champion. Even if the chances are slim, I will take the time to evaluate all the options. If I can’t be in a champion team, I will go where it is best for my near future.”
A transfer market still uncertain
The Formula 1 transfer market remains wide open for the 2025 season. Decisions by drivers like Carlos Sainz and teams like Mercedes and Red Bull will have a domino effect across the grid. The next few weeks promise to be crucial, with potentially major announcements at the upcoming Grands Prix. F1 fans and keen observers will be closely following these developments as they shape the future of the sport. In the meantime, the 2024 season is in full swing, with the Belgian Grand Prix looming this weekend. Drivers’ performances on track will continue to influence team decisions for next year, making each race even more important in this high-speed game of musical chairs.
