Alpine pressure release key to future F1 success

Esteban Ocon has claimed his victory at last year's Hungarian Grand Prix was one that finally lifted the pressure off Alpine and is key to future F1 success.

When Renault rejoined the F1 grid in 2016, it did so with a five-year plan to be challenging for championship success.

Although there have been improvements over time, the manufacturer was forced to wait until 2020 to eventually score the first podium of its return.

It was not until last year, however, the team that had rebranded to Alpine last winter savoured long-overdue success again with Ocon's triumph at the Hungaroring.

“It was a great feeling," explained Ocon in a post-season media briefing that included GPFans.

"I'm glad that we've got that out of the way for the team. Obviously, it's the first win since Renault came back to Formula One.

"Next time, hopefully soon that we're going to be in that position, we know how it feels and we don't have as much pressure. We can just do our job and make it happen."

Ocon has expressed his desire to race at the front on a more consistent basis in the new era of F1, expressing a belief his success means the team can approach the challenge 'without fear'.

“In my case, I'm still working the same way as I did," added Ocon. "The guys that I have around me, of course, they were really pleased with having that win.

"It was the first one for many of them, but we want to have more of those moments. It's not only one.

“We know we have a long way and hard work coming up, but it feels obviously good, and I'm proud to have lived that with them, with such a talented bunch of people.”

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