Following his struggles at the Monaco Grand Prix, Esteban Ocon has taken to social media to respond to the “slander and negativity” that has been directed at him online following his opening lap crash with teammate Pierre Gasly.
Just after the start of last Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix, Ocon tried to overtake Gasly but the two Alpine drivers collided. The collision between the two teammates launched Ocon’s A524 into the air and then crashed on the streets of Monte Carlo. The floor of Ocon’s A524 was damaged, ending his race.
Race officials investigated the collision, found Ocon “fully responsible” and imposed a 10-second penalty, which was changed to a five-place grid penalty as Ocon had retired from the race, and the driver will now serve that penalty in the next race.
Shortly after the incident, team principal Bruno Famin spoke to French media. Canal Plus He then suggested there would be “consequences” for Ocon’s attempt to overtake – comments that have sparked speculation that Ocon could be benched for next weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal.
Ocon apologised internally to the team and on social media.
But the driver took to social media again to address the comments he has seen since Sunday. “While I have received many messages of support, I am deeply saddened by the amount of criticism and negativity I have received online regarding my character, driving and career,” the statement began.
“I’ve always been a tough competitor and, like most drivers, I’ve had a lot of accidents. [Ricciardo]Czech Republic [Sergio Pérez] Pierre and Fernando are double champions [Alonso]” Ocon continued.
“As teammates, we often started races very close together, which sometimes led to tough battles on the track and even contact,” the Alpine driver added. “Of course, to be honest, we made mistakes. We are not robots, we are athletes who push ourselves to the limit every day to achieve our dream of winning races.”
“Formula 1 is an emotionally charged sport and passion runs deep and I see and feel that every weekend at the track and on social media – good and bad,” Ocon continued. “However, the false statements and gross distortions I have seen recently online about my ability to work with the team are inaccurate, hurtful and damaging.”
Ocon later made a note of the incident and suggested he would be back in the car next week.
“I take responsibility for the accident on the first lap last Sunday. Despite my retirement, I am pleased that the team has added some points to its score during what has been a tough start to the season for all of us,” Ocon continued. “I have great respect for Pierre as a teammate and as a competitor. Working together within the team has always been and will continue to be cooperative and professional.”
“I look forward to competing in front of the incredible Canadian fans in Montreal and the exciting opportunities that await me in the future.”
The full statement can be found here:
The statement comes at a crucial time in Ocon’s career, as the driver is due to be out of contract with Alpine at the end of this season. Ocon is rumoured to have several seats open next year, which could see him return to Alpine. His comments suggest he has genuine concerns that the Monaco accident and its aftermath will affect his future prospects.
