Esteban Ocon and the Verstappen example

Barely older than Max Verstappen, who started at 17, Esteban Ocon will take its first steps in a Grand Prix this weekend in Belgium on the Spa-Francorchamps track. Asked about his age and the experience acquired in lower series, notably in GP3 last year, where he won the title, the new Manor driver did not avoid the question.

“Age is just a number in the end, comments Ocon. You must show that you are capable of driving F1 and show it to the right people. I think that's the most important thing. »

The Norman also wanted to take an example from Max Verstappen, author of a remarkable arrival in F1 last year. After a full season at Toro Rosso, the Dutchman, promoted to replace Daniil Kvyat at Red Bull before the Spanish Grand Prix this year, won in Barcelona before taking two second places in Austria and Great Britain, and a third place in Germany.

“When you get to F1, then you must perform as Max did. That's the goal for me. » adds Ocon. His old rival also went the way of the FIA ​​European Champion F3 2014, who beat him in the title race on the continental scene.

“I think in the end it doesn't matter what show you come from, as long as you do a good job, underlines the Red Bull driver. Once you're in Formula One, it's up to you to show you're ready. I don't think it has anything to do with F3 or GP3. »