We left you in December doing your first laps with the 2019 Renault during the end-of-season tests in Abu Dhabi. What has happened since?
Esteban Ocon : A lot has happened this winter! We had a good preparation with the team, I did the simulator, I went to see all the people in each department, to see the energy at the moment and there is a great atmosphere, everyone is very happy with my arrival, everyone really supported me, everyone is smiling. Now is the time to perform on the track and I can't wait. (...) I feel ready. I had one of the best preparations of all my previous years in F1, so I feel good.
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Have you set goals since these first tests?
It is a bit early. Team objective level, we will try to fight for fourth place, get closer to the top 3, try to create a dynamic where we progress constantly and where we will have a solid base for 2021 (year of change of technical regulations, sports and commercial of the World Championship, note). On the personal side, this is a podium that I would like to do. I still have to + score + one. We will try to do our best.
You are the eighth French driver at Renault in F1. Is it a source of motivation or pressure?
It's a stat, but a good stat. I am happy to represent France, with an additional French team. French Grand Prix (June 28 at Le Castellet, editor's note), French stable, French driver, it's going to be great! I can not wait to be there. Of course it's something special, but for me, Renault really represents racing and being one of its two drivers, it's sure that it has a special taste.
"I see Alain Prost as a mentor"
Alain Prost, quadruple F1 world champion, is the non-executive director of Renault in F1. What are your relationships?
I am very lucky to work with Alain. It really helps me in everyday life. We are called very, very often to discuss what's going on in the team, how we could do things better. He will continue to coach me, to help me all year round. I may have more on the phone than my family! I am very lucky to have him by my side and I see him as a mentor.
Have you got to know your new teammate Daniel Ricciardo?
Everything is going well together. The first time I met him, I heard: "hey", I turned around and I took a bottle of water in the face (laughs). He's a nice guy, he's a clown, he's funny. There is a good understanding in the team. (...) I am very lucky to have him to compare myself to him, because he is one of the best. I will try to settle on him during the tests (winter in Barcelona from February 19 to 28, editor's note), learn what he is doing and arrive ready in Australia (theater of the first Grand Prix of the season on March 15, editor's note).
Words gathered during a press point .
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