Ocon: “Ready to take on the challenge” with Renault

Although smiling during the presentation of the 2020 season at the Atelier Renault on the Champs-Élysées (Paris) this Wednesday February 12, Esteban Ocon has not forgotten his motivation at the idea of ​​returning to Formula 1.

“We have had a lot of time to prepare and I feel ready to take on the challenge, announces the Frenchman. The Abu Dhabi tests were beneficial because they allowed me to get my bearings with everyone and discover the car used by Renault F1 Team last year and which proves to be the starting point of the car for 2020.

After a year of waiting, I'm really looking forward to getting back into competition. This is the place I want to be. I already know part of the team, but it has changed a lot since I was there in 2016. Things are changing quickly in Formula 1 and everything has developed enormously at Renault. I think this will help me find my place and be ready for the first race. »

The European champion of Formula 3 in 2014 was able to note the change in dimension within the English factory ofenstone. “I am extremely impressed. When I was younger, I grew up in Enstone and there were a lot of changes. I couldn't find my way when I returned to the factory for the first time in 2019! With lots of new features and more people, it's all perfect to give us a boost this year. »

Partner of the smile Daniel Ricciardo at Renault, Esteban Ocon is delighted to work with the Australian. “I'm looking forward to teaming up with Daniel and it seems easy to work with him,” explains Eurois. Pushing each other is always a good thing, as it adds to the performance of the car and will pull the team up. This is what we will try to do. We are aiming for excellent results for the team and we will have to bring out the best in each other while respecting limits. »

Finally, the 23-year-old young man did not skimp on physical preparation. “I have been training intensely in the Pyrenees since January 2. I want to work on myself as much as possible during the off-season to ensure I am ready for the physical challenge imposed by Formula 1.

At the same time, I often go to the simulator at the factory or meet with staff in all departments to follow the development of the car. Last year (with Mercedes), I thought I would have a lot more time to train, but that wasn't really the case.

Between my attendance at the Grands Prix, the simulator sessions and the tests with Pirelli, I was as busy as if I was driving. This is also why I returned to training early this year, to maximize my time and inject this dynamic into our season. »