Alpine F1 2023: Esteban Ocon, can they challenge Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari

What to expect from Alpine?

Alpine continue to remain ahead of their nearest midfield competitors but have struggled to close the gap to F1’s leading three teams - Mercedes, Red Bull and Ferrari.

The French manufacturer has been unable to replicate its memorable win at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, although it has shown signs of progression relative to last year after completely overhauling the power unit.

Esteban Ocon will lead the team’s charge in 2022 after Fernando Alonso decided to switch to Aston Martin.

While Ocon has lacked outright pace relative to Alonso, he has been incredibly consistent in terms of points scoring.

Ocon is the perfect midfield driver for the team despite lacking the big results, especially in qualifying, relative to Alonso.

The identity of Ocon's teammate is unknown with their first choice - Oscar Piastri - opting to join McLaren.

Can Ocon lead the team?

With Alonso leaving the team, Ocon will naturally be the team’s leader, regardless of who Ricciardo’s replacement is.

The Frenchman was rewarded with a three-year contract after a solid start to last year.

McLaren have Lando Norris, Aston Martin will have Alonso - is Ocon on a par with either driver? No, but he’s dependable, reliable and is a reliable points scorer.