But while Alpine did have a back-up list of alternative avenues for the seat alongside Alonso, their first choice was always Ocon .
The mechanics and engineers love him and are energised by his ability to get absolutely everything out of the car – and then some.
But he is delivering at a high level, aiding Tsunoda’s development, and earning championship points that are putting the team in the fight for P5 in the championship, which of course means a hefty chunk of prize money for the Red Bull coffers, reducing the need to lean on Dietrich Mateschitz’s wallet.
At the end of the day it will be up to them to make the decision whether we continue together, continue with AlphaTauri, with Red Bull or other options.
He’s incredibly likeable, which makes him good for the brand – an area Williams are putting a big focus on – and would serve as a statement of intent from the team that they are able to sign talented drivers.
This would be an opportunity to work on an exciting project from the ground up and potentially build the team around him.
There’s no doubt it would be a gamble.
Red Bull, too, must decide if Sergio Perez deserves another year.
He also knows that the team is an enticing prospect, with several drivers believed to have submitted an interest in joining them in the future.
Nicholas Latifi has done a decent job so far in his second season, so remains in contention to stay on.
If Russell were to join Mercedes in place of Bottas, that would also put the Finn in the mix to go the other way.
Kimi Raikkonen may be heading for his mid-40s but he’s showing no signs of throwing in the towel, and if his feedback remains at a high level and he can get results, Alfa Romeo may struggle to find a reason to change their line-up.