Ocon: “This result is a real relief”

Esteban Ocon offered the best possible reward to his team which was not even sure of being able to take part in the Belgian GP after its purchase by Lawrence Stroll during the summer break. The 2015 GP3 Series champion equaled his best qualifying performance by claiming 3rd place on the Spa-Francorchamps grid after showing off on the sodden track following a sudden downpour at the start of Q3.

“We know we have a chance to do something in these conditions because the gaps between the cars are closing, recognized the Frenchman at a press conference. We were able to optimize the potential of the car. I also started from 3rd place the last time it rained in qualifying (at the 2017 Italian GP). This result is a real relief after the difficult times experienced in recent days by the team who are now behind us. Additionally, the car was also competitive in the dry this weekend. »

Esteban Ocon could not shine at a better time, the future of the protégé of Mercedes being uncertain with the takeover of Force India by Lawrence Stroll who will soon place his son Lance there. A conversation between Esteban Ocon and Sebastian Vettel surprise by a camera just after qualifying also suggests that Lance Stroll will team up with Sergio Pérez.

“My future is not yet confirmed. I can only do my best on the track to ensure a future. I fight every day to have a steering wheel next year because I don't yet know where I will drive. If you perform well on the track, the teams cannot ignore you. Mercedes has made very good decisions regarding me in the past and I hope they will continue to do so.", the French pilot subsequently admitted.

Racing Point Force India monopolized the second row of the grid with Sergio Pérez in 4th position, 4 hundredths behind his teammate.