Esteban Ocon hailed his relationship with Fernando Alonso, saying that it was a privilege to race alongside him.
Alonso joined Alpine and partnered with the Frenchman in 2021. The Spaniard returned to F1 after some years away from the sport, so the expectations were not very high.
Instead, Alpine exceeded said expectations, with the two drivers at the forefront of it. The dynamic between the two drivers has also been pleasant, which given Alonso’s reputation from years past came as a welcome surprise.
Ocon hailed his relationship with Alonso, and said that he found only positives to working with him.
As quoted by Planet F1, the 2021 Hungarian GP winner said, “I’ve discovered a great person and friend.
“Racing alongside Fernando Alonso has been a privilege. Le plan is unleashed.
“It has been a season full of emotions. Happiness with our victory in Hungary, and with Fernando’s podium in Qatar! Plus P5 (and) P6 in quali.
“We faced frustration with the near missed podium in Saudi. Some sadness at times looking on how to get back to form. We’ve overcome all these emotions together and reflecting on it this is our strongest time of 2021.”
Merci beaucoup
This was Ocon’s best season in F1. Against all the odds, he took a massive win in Hungary, fighting off Sebastian Vettel till the last lap and playing Alpine’s game to perfection.
The driver is looking forward to 2022, and expressed his gratitude towards his team for helping him develop this season and give him hope for the upcoming season.
“Merci to every single member of Alpine for making me feel at home each time I jump in the car,” he stated.
“It’s only the beginning of our story, let’s build our future.”
Read more: Ocon happy to play wingman to Alonso in Qatar – “Slowed his rival down by three seconds”