“An Asset for us Beyond Formula 1”: Alpine CEO Explains Reason for Esteban Ocon’s New F1 Contract

French driver Esteban Ocon has put pen to paper on a new deal with Alpine that will see him stay at the team until 2024. Alpine CEO Laurent Rossi has backed Ocon with confidence, stating that he will bring the team much-needed results while also help in further developing the car.

The 24-year-old driver joined the Enstone-based team back in 2020, replacing Nico Hulkenberg. The best result the Ocon has gotten for the French team was at the Sakhir GP last year where he placed second.

In the 2021 season, Ocon finds himself in twelfth place in the driver’s standings with 12 points, just a point behind his teammate Fernando Alonso. The Frenchman will look to beat his teammate, a two-time champion, and bag as many points as possible to get ahead in this year’s championship.

Alpine CEO, Rossi feels Esteban Ocon is the right man for the team

As quoted by Sky Sports, the CEO Rossi said, “Since returning to the team in 2020, Esteban has gained confidence and stature to consistently deliver good results and help develop the car with the team.”

“We have full confidence in Esteban to bring the team and the brand to the next level and to achieve the long-term goals. Esteban is an asset for us beyond Formula 1, as he is deeply involved in the global alpine world project. Thanks to his personality and his values, he is a perfect ambassador,” Rossi concluded.

(Translated from German via Google)

Watch Story: What Are Sprint Races & Where Will They Be Held?

What Ocon say about his contract extension?

With the new deal, Ocon feels confident and believes he can achieve better results as he develops as a driver and hopes to have a bright future in the French team.

“I am looking forward to continuing with the team beyond this year and it is a fantastic feeling to secure my future at Alpine.  Since I joined the team, we have made good progress together, and I would like to continue this journey in the future.”

The next race on the F1 calendar is the French GP, Ocon’s home race. Esteban will hope to treat his fans to a good result by aiming for a win, or at least a podium finish.

Just days from Le Castellet, can Ocon bring more joy to his French supporters?

Read More: Does Ocon’s New Alpine Extension Clear the Way for George Russell to Join Mercedes?