Otmar Szafnauer, Alpine Formula 1 boss, titled Estaban Ocon as the “French minister of defence” for his outstanding defense this year. He showed his impressive efforts while holding off drivers on the track.
Ocon manged to keep the Apline in middle order throughout the season. He also managed to beat McLaren F1 team on the world constructors’ championship. The team finished fourth behind Mercedes and ahead of McLaren.
Despite Ocon failed to finish this season on podium, he claims this year to be his best season. His claim is supported by his performance points in a single campaign, which accumulated to 92 this season.
Szafnauer, Alpine F1 chief, applauded Ocon performances this year. He said he had “fabulous” races before he went on to appreciate his defensive efforts.
“There were other times where we thought, ‘oh no, the performance isn’t there’. And then he pulled it out. So really, really good for him,” said Szafnauer.
“But yeah, Suzuka stands out to me. That was amazing! Lewis [Hamilton], in a Mercedes, very good in the wet, changeable conditions, drying conditions, driving in your mirrors all time, Lewis was in the faster car.
“I mean, just look where [Mercedes] finished the championship. And he held him off. Brilliant.”
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Ocon kept Hamilton at bay for the duration rain shortened Japanese Grand prix. He managed to beat seven-time world champion to fourth place, who was even a better car.
Hamilton tried to push off the Ocon at the hairpin. He also put the Frenchman on the run from Spoon to 130R. However, the Apline driver did not budge and positioned himself perfectly to keep his position.
Szafnauer confidence is enhance by such performances. He claims such boosts his trust on his driver to keep other driver back. He then jumped on to joke asking for defense minister nickname for the driver.
“I know Checo’s nickname is minister of defence. But maybe we should change that to… what’s minister of defence in France?” asked Szafnauer.
“Let’s figure out what that is. Figure out what that is and give him that nickname!”
