Ocon pleased with Alonso simulator support at Renault
Esteban Ocon says that Fernando Alonso’s involvement in Renault’s sim programme this year can be a boost to the outfit as it bids to move forward.
With Alonso fired up over his return to Formula 1 next year, he has done some sessions in the Renault simulator in recent weeks to try to get himself more integrated with the Enstone-based squad.
And, with the Spaniard eager to keep tabs on how the team is progressing, Ocon says that Alonso’s input and willingness to help is welcome.
“I've seen how keen he is, and of course he has sent me messages that if we needed anything, he would be there no problem,” said Ocon, when asked by Motorsport.com about the value of Alonso’s involvement.
“It's good at the moment that he goes into the simulator. It's three opinions basically because it’s me, Daniel [Ricciardo] and him. We are all practising on the sim before going to the races and to have a good start setup to the weekend.
“So to have three confirmations is better than two, let's say. So, yeah, it's been good that recently he's been working closely with the sim team. And I'm sure he will come very soon to a race. I expect him very shortly.”
Last week Alonso tested Renault’s 2020 car during a filming day at Barcelona, with the Spaniard having pushed hard to get out on track.
Renault wants to try to give Alonso as much mileage as possible, but it may now be restricted to only running him in 2018 machinery because of F1’s strict testing restrictions.
But even without any further running, or being at the factory, Alonso says he is still well set up for each grand prix to offer his input.
“Of course I watch all the races from home and I have also a nice set-up,” he said. “I have a computer that the team gave to me a couple of weeks ago, so I can follow Esteban’s on-board camera, Daniel’s on-board camera as well. I can follow the radio communications from the team, the debriefs, the strategy meetings.
“So I know what is happening every weekend. The results are getting better. The podium in the last race was I think a very deserved podium finally, for the hard work.”
Related video
Previous article
Ferrari to introduce further aero upgrades in Portugal
Next article
Renault juniors Lundgaard, Piastri, Zhou handed Bahrain tests
About this article
| Series | Formula 1 |
| Author | Jonathan Noble |
Why Aston Martin’s arrival is more than just new green livery
In the most eagerly anticipated Formula 1 team launch of the season, the rebranded Aston Martin squad’s changes go much further than the striking paint job. But rather than a restart, the team hopes to build on top of solid foundations.
The car Aston Martin begins its new F1 journey with
The team formerly known as Racing Point gambled successfully on a Mercedes look-alike in 2020 as it mounted a strong challenge for third in the constructors' race and won the Sakhir GP. Now clothed in British racing green, Aston Martin's first Formula 1 challenger since 1960 provides the clearest indicator yet of what to expect from the new-for-2021 regulations
The tricky driver conundrums facing Mercedes in F1 2021
Ahead of the new Formula 1 season, reigning world champions Mercedes will take on challenges both old and new. This also can be said for its driver conundrum which could become key to sustaining its ongoing success...
How Alpine's cure to 2021 F1 rules starts at the front
A new name, new faces and new colours pulls the rebranded Alpine Formula 1 team into a new era while carrying over core elements of its 2020 car. But under the surface there's more than meets the eye with the A521 which hints at how the team will tackle 2021...
Can Mercedes' W12 retain the team's crown?
Replacing Formula 1's fastest car was never going to be an easy feat for Mercedes. Amid the technical rule tweaks to peg back the W12 and its 2021 rivals, the new Mercedes challenger will remain the target to beat
The pointed note that starts Ferrari's Leclerc vs Sainz era
Ferrari is starting its post-Sebastian Vettel age by welcoming Carlos Sainz in alongside Charles Leclerc. But while Sainz has a tough challenge to match his new teammate, Ferrari is also sending a message that previous intra-team spats must end
The mantra Ocon must follow to challenge Alonso at Alpine
OPINION: It's been an uneasy ride for Esteban Ocon since his F1 comeback - and fresh challenges lie in wait as he's joined by double world champion Fernando Alonso in the newly rebranded Alpine team. STUART CODLING sets out a roadmap to success…
Why Haas is willing to sacrifice its 2021 F1 season
Every Formula 1 team is facing the same difficult decision this season: how do you split precious aero development time between the current car and the all-new 2022 project?
