F1: Melbourne reignites the rivalry between Ocon and Gasly

The Australian Grand Prix served as a reminder that the rivalry between Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly is never far from resurfacing in Formula 1.

Ocon – Gasly: ​​From karting to Formula 1, or a rivalry that endures

In Melbourne, the two French drivers found themselves at the heart of a spectacular incident during the chaotic restart at the end of the race. At that moment, Alpine seemed to be on track for a major result: gasly occupied a solid fifth place whileOr with was also fighting hard on points.

But at the first turn after the restart, the situation quickly changed.

gasly He ran slightly wide to avoid a collision ahead before swerving back onto the racing line. Without seeing his teammate positioned on the inside, the Frenchman closed the door, causing contact between the two Alpines. The cars ended up in the wall, ending what could have been one of the team's best results.

After the race, Pierre gasly he did not hide his frustration.

"I am extremely disappointed with the result. I gave it my all during the race... I am simply devastated to miss out on a great result." acknowledged the French pilot.

The pilot Alpine quickly acknowledged his share of responsibility.

« I don't think Esteban can be blamed. He was racing. It was up to me to give him space.

For its part, Esteban Ocon chose to calm the situation despite the disappointment.

"After that chaotic restart, I could have contacted anyone. He didn't leave me much room, but there's no hard feelings.", has explained Or with.

The Frenchman also confirmed that gasly had come to apologize after the race.

"Pierre came to apologize after the race. This kind of thing can happen in a situation like that." »

The incident was also commented on by the management ofalpine, which recalled the particularly chaotic context of the restart.

"They both apologized, so each believes they played a role in the incident. In these kinds of situations, you have to make split-second decisions."the team manager explained, Otmar Szafnauer.

Beyond the confrontation, this episode serves as a reminder of the relationship between Or with et gasly goes back much further than that la Formula 1. The two drivers have known each other since their karting days, where their rivalry was already particularly intense.

Although their relationship has become largely professional since reaching the highest level, their on-track duels continue to be closely scrutinized, as the history between the two Frenchmen remains marked by strong competition.