Esteban Ocon Seeks Saudi Arabian GP Redemption After Close Podium Miss in 2021

Esteban Ocon had a phenomenal Saturday Qualifying in the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, securing a P5. On the other hand, Daniel Ricciardo got a three-place grid penalty for blocking Ocon during one of his flying laps.

The French constructors look strong for the Jeddah race. Although they might still not be able to fight in the front, they can still compete for the midfield finish against teams like Haas and McLaren. But it seems Ocon isn’t satisfied with the midfield. He is instead eyeing a podium.

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Ocon had a phenomenal performance last season at the Jeddah circuit, finishing fourth. The Frenchman was just one place away from the podium last season. But this time he would start the race at P5, competing against teams like Red Bull and Ferrari for the podium in Saudi Arabia.

Ocon reported, “If you’re starting from the top five on this track, there are many opportunities in the race. I don’t want to predict the race, but I intend to race for the podium because I came close to it and finished fourth in Jeddah last year.”

Ricciardo’s penalty for blocking Esteban Ocon

The Alpine is looking really good this season. The Alpine duo showcased some impressive pace at the Saudi Qualifying. But during Q2, McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo blocked Esteban Ocon, who was on a fast lap.

But the FIA officials noticed the Honey Badger blocking Ocon in Q2. After the qualifying, the race officials imposed a three-grid penalty on the Honey Badger, who would start the Sunday race from P14. Further, Ricciardo also received a one-point penalty on his super license, along with the McLaren team receiving a fine of 10,000 euros. The race officials found that the English constructors failed to inform Ricciardo about an incoming car from the back.

So, Esteban Ocon will now start the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at P5, behind the Ferrari and Red Bull duo. Meanwhile, his four-time world champion Fernando Alonso secured a P7. George Russell from Mercedes finished P6 and he would be between both the Alpine cars.

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The French constructors are a strong contender this season and can finish the Sunday race in the Top 10. But it would be more fascinating to see if Ocon can get a podium for himself or not.