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Ocon disappointed with Alonso: 'Part of the criticism was unnecessary'

Ocon disappointed with Alonso: 'Part of the criticism was unnecessary'

25-11-2022 12:52 Last update: 14:43
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GPblog.com

There was a time when Esteban Ocon and Fernando Alonso were ideal teammates. Take, for instance, the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, which Ocon surprisingly won. Alonso was among the first to congratulate the Frenchman on the win afterwards.

How different the relationship between the pair seems to have ended. In Brazil's sprint race, Alonso and Ocon collided twice. Although the Spaniard was blamed by the stweards, Alonso was angry at his teammate afterwards. Alonso said that "it’s far from ideal when it’s your teammate, but it’s been a little like this (with Ocon) all year long". He then referred to his move to Aston Martin: "It’s one more race and then it’s over, finally”

Unnecessary

Ocon speaks to the Formula 1 website on Alonso's statements. "It’s no secret that I was disappointed in seeing his comments after the race. There was no need for some [of the] criticism that he has done" the Frenchman said. “But I respect him a lot. I will forever respect him for what he has done on the track over the years. He’s a legend of the sport and that won’t change – but I was a bit disappointed.”

This is not the first time Ocon has lived at odds with a teammate. Previously, he had a strained relationship with Sergio Perez at the then-called Racing Point. Next year, he will have Pierre Gasly alongside him. His compatriot and Ocon are also anything but friends.