Esteban Ocon approaches Monaco with cautious optimism, recognizing that a repeat of last year’s podium finish is unlikely due to the limitations of this year’s Alpine A524.
As Alpine F1 and Esteban Ocon prepare for Monaco, the Frenchman remains grounded about his prospects on a track where anything can happen, as evidenced by his podium finish last year.
Unfortunately, this year’s A524 is unlikely to shine as brightly, particularly under dry conditions, which are not guaranteed, especially during Saturday’s qualifying.
Reflecting on Imola, Ocon shares his thoughts on the challenges and his hopes for the upcoming weekend.
“Looking back at last weekend, Imola was a tough race for us as a team. We weren’t able to compete with our direct rivals,” Ocon admits.
“The car seemed more competitive over a single lap, and we were close to making Q3 again, but we were hampered by a lack of top speed during the race.”
“We couldn’t advance from our starting position or defend against those behind us. We tried different strategies with both cars to gain positions, but we ultimately lacked the required pace. I extended my first stint to make a one-stop strategy work, hoping to gain an advantage over those on two stops, but it didn’t pan out.”
“Imola shows we need to keep progressing and working hard to better understand the car and maximize its potential with setups on different circuits, starting this week in Monaco.”
Monaco is a unique race where drivers can sometimes compensate for their car’s deficiencies. Ocon demonstrated this last year with a podium finish but acknowledges it will be challenging to replicate this feat with the A524.
“Monaco holds a special place in the calendar. Its name is synonymous with Formula 1 and motorsport history. As a driver, it’s a weekend where you must be at your best and stay focused throughout.”
“Monaco is a track where the driver can really make a difference. If you’re comfortable in the car and it responds exactly as you want, you can brush the barriers to find extra time. That was our case last year; I felt good in the car from the first practice session.”
“I have fond memories of Monaco, especially the podium finish twelve months ago. Without a race in France, it’s like our second home race alongside Silverstone.”
“Realistically, I don’t think we can repeat last year’s performance, but we’ll give it everything to achieve the best possible result this weekend.”
Ocon Realistic: No Repeat of 2023 Monaco Podium. Ocon Realistic: No Repeat of 2023 Monaco Podium
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