Alpine seriously considering benching Esteban Ocon for Canadian GP

Esteban Ocon could be dropped for the Canadian Grand Prix.

Alpine is seriously considering benching Ocon following his collision with teammate Pierre Gasly on the opening lap of the Monaco Grand Prix, according to Sky Sports News reporter Craig Slater.

While Gasly escaped unscathed and continued the race, Ocon faced the wrath of Alpine boss Bruno Famin. Famin hinted at possible "consequences" for Ocon, suggesting that he might be sidelined for the next race in Montreal.

Providing an update on the situation, Slater revealed that Alpine dropping Ocon for Canada is still under "serious consideration" by Famin. "Famin spoke angrily. He talked about taking a tough decision, which everyone has interpreted as benching Esteban Ocon for the next race in Canada," Slater explained. "What I can say is that this is still a serious consideration for Alpine boss Bruno Famin."

Famin is prepared to do what is best for the team, and if that means leaving Ocon out for a week to demonstrate the need for team discipline, he is willing to make that decision. However, the decision has yet to be made.

There were face-to-face meetings between Ocon and Famin after the Grand Prix. Ocon apologized both privately and publicly via social media afterward. "Let’s see what happens," Slater added.

Another factor at play is Ocon’s future. He has been linked with Audi and Haas in recent rumors as he explores options outside of Alpine. Alpine started the year as the slowest team but has slowly moved back up the grid in terms of competitiveness.

"It also raises questions about whether Ocon will continue beyond next year," Slater said. "We all know he was a childhood rival of the other Alpine driver Pierre Gasly, and whether the two can happily coexist in the same team remains in doubt. This incident is another example of them not coexisting happily."

"As most observers see it, it was a needlessly optimistic attempt by Ocon to pass, which could have cost the team any points in the Grand Prix."