Esteban Ocon's 2022 Formula 1 season at Alpine solidified his position as a consistent midfield performer, demonstrating effective racecraft and outscoring his experienced teammate despite the team's operational inconsistencies.
Going in
Following a breakthrough 2021 season that included his maiden Grand Prix victory in Hungary, Esteban Ocon entered 2022 with established credentials. The new ground-effect regulations, 18-inch wheels, and simplified aero presented a reset for all teams, and Alpine aimed to consolidate its position as a leading midfield contender. Ocon's teammate, Fernando Alonso, provided a formidable benchmark, known for his relentless pursuit of performance even in challenging machinery. The team's objective was clear: secure fourth place in the Constructors' Championship, a significant step in the new era dominated by Red Bull and, at times, Ferrari and Mercedes.
How it played out
The A522 proved to be a competitive package, often positioning Alpine as the 'best of the rest' behind the top three teams. Ocon consistently extracted performance, demonstrating strong race pace and an ability to defend positions effectively. He scored points in 16 of the 22 races, a testament to his consistency and the car's reliability under his command. The intra-team battle with Alonso was a significant narrative, with both drivers showcasing their capabilities. While Alonso often displayed flashes of raw speed, particularly in qualifying, Ocon's consistent points haul saw him finish ahead in the Drivers' Championship, P8 to Alonso's P9. This outcome was influenced by Alonso's disproportionate share of mechanical retirements, but Ocon's ability to capitalize on opportunities and maintain a high level of performance throughout the season was undeniable. His racecraft, particularly in wheel-to-wheel scenarios, was a recurring highlight, allowing him to convert mid-grid starts into valuable championship points. The season also saw the team navigate internal dynamics, particularly concerning future driver lineups, which added another layer to the competitive environment.
Defining moments
Several races underscored Ocon's 2022 campaign. Early in the season, strong drives in Saudi Arabia and Australia saw him secure valuable points, setting a consistent tone. The Monaco Grand Prix was another demonstration of his race management, navigating the challenging street circuit to finish in the points. Perhaps one of his most notable performances came at the Japanese Grand Prix, where he skillfully defended fourth place from Lewis Hamilton in challenging wet conditions, showcasing his composure and defensive prowess. While the Brazilian Grand Prix saw an unfortunate collision with teammate Alonso during the Sprint race, Ocon recovered to secure points in the main race, contributing to Alpine's Constructors' tally. His drive to P7 in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was crucial, solidifying Alpine's fourth-place finish in the Constructors' Championship, a primary team objective for the year.
What it meant
Esteban Ocon's 2022 season was a significant step in his Formula 1 career. By outscoring a two-time world champion like Fernando Alonso and contributing substantially to Alpine's P4 in the Constructors' Championship, he reaffirmed his status as a reliable and competitive driver in the midfield. The season demonstrated his growth in race management and his ability to consistently perform under pressure within the new ground-effect regulations. This strong showing set the stage for a new chapter in 2023, with Alonso departing and Pierre Gasly joining Alpine, presenting Ocon with a fresh challenge as the more experienced driver within the team. His performance in 2022 provided a solid foundation for his continued trajectory in the sport, showcasing his potential for sustained success in a competitive environment, much like how drivers like Fernando Alonso have adapted to changing eras throughout their careers.
