Yesterday, almost a week after theaccident with partner Pierre Gasly in Monaco, Esteban Or with he's back on social to talk about what happened and the consequences. Even though it happened almost simultaneously with the crash between Sergio Perez and the Haas, the contact between the two pilots of theAlpine it certainly didn't go unnoticed, especially by team principal Bruno Famin.
“Esteban's senseless attack, there will be consequences”, he commented shortly after the incident. With much surprise, one replacing Ocon with reserve driver Jack Doohan it hadn't become that unlikely. With a cool head, however, the team confirmed the number 31 for the next Canadian GP, in which he will have to serve a 5-place grid penalty.
Ocon on Instagram: “Saddened by the insults and negativity online”
Social media, however, heavily criticized the driver from Évreux, who then responded with a post on Instagram. “A lot of things were said after the Monaco GP. Although I have received many messages of support, I have been deeply saddened by the amount of insults and negativity I have received online about my character, my drive and my career”, Ocon explained.
“Thanks to the hard work, support and sacrifice of many people, I have raced over 140 Grands Prix so far since my debut in 2016. I have always been a tough competitor and, like most drivers, I have had my share of accidents . I was lucky to race alongside talented and experienced teammates like Daniel [Ricciardo], Czech [Perez] and Pierre [Gasly] and to a two-time world champion like Fernando [alonso]".
Mistakes can happen, but there is a limit to everything
“As teammates, we often started races close to each other and, in some cases, this meant having battles and sometimes contact. Obviously, I made mistakes. We are not robots. We are athletes who push ourselves to the limit every day to achieve our dream of winning a race.".
“Formula 1 is a sport where emotions and passion are very strong. I see it and hear it every weekend at the track and on social media… the good and the bad. But the false statements and distortions I've seen online in recent days about my ability to work in a team have been inaccurate and mean.".
A team sport first and foremost
“Since my first laps in motorsport, I have approached this sport with humility, professionalism and respect. These values were passed on to me as a child. Although each driver seeks individual glory, this will always be a team sport first and foremost.".
“I have always followed the instructions given to me and raced to achieve the maximum for and with my team. I took responsibility for the accident on the first lap last Sunday and, despite my retirement, I am happy that the team has added a point to the tally of what is a difficult start to the season for all of us.".
Ocon: “There is respect between me and Gasly”
"I respect Pierre as a teammate and as an opponent. We have always worked professionally within the team and will continue to do so. There is no reward without risk in Formula 1 and the starts are intense, especially in Monaco where the first lap can decide your final result.".
“In the end we are all rivals and we compete hard but fair. This is the main reason why I love this sport so much. I can't wait to race in Montreal, in front of the fantastic Canadian fans, and see what opportunities the future holds.".
