Esteban Ocon Embraces New Horizons with Haas
French Formula 1 driver Esteban Ocon, who joined Haas this season, expressed his excitement for the "exciting challenge" of starting a fresh chapter after five years with the Renault team, which became Alpine in 2021.
"It’s an incredible opportunity in my career to embark on a new project like this," said the 28-year-old Ocon on the sidelines of an event launching the 75th edition of the championship. "I hope to have a year where I feel I’ve gotten the most out of the car, and my goal is to feel comfortable and well-integrated into the team, knowing what’s expected and when," he explained to the dozens of journalists present.
Haas finished the 2024 season in seventh place – out of ten – in the constructors’ championship and will start 2025 with two new drivers. In addition to Ocon, who was 14th in the drivers’ championship last year, British driver Oliver Bearman will make his F1 debut at 19 years old.
"I’m trying to do my job the best I can for now, trying to give the team as much information as possible and put my experience to good use," added Ocon. "Thanks to my experience, I can guide them in many technical areas."
With just over a week to go before the traditional pre-season tests in Bahrain from February 26-28, the Frenchman has already had the opportunity to test his new car, the VF-25, during a private shakedown.
While it’s still difficult to judge the new car at this point, Ocon believes he will know much more after "the third day" of testing, when "everyone should know where they stand" in the hierarchy before the first Grand Prix of the year, in Australia on March 16.
Ocon’s Experience and Ambitions
Ocon’s move to Haas marks a new chapter in his Formula 1 career, and he brings with him a wealth of experience and ambition. Having made his Formula 1 debut in 2016, he has raced for Manor, Force India, Racing Point, and Renault before joining Haas.
Ocon has achieved several podium finishes and a victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2021. He is known for his consistent driving and his ability to score points week after week.
With Haas, Ocon aims to help the team take a step forward in the constructors’ championship. After finishing seventh in 2024, the team is looking to improve its performance and give Ocon and Bearman a car that is capable of challenging for points consistently.
Haas’ New Era
Haas’ decision to hire Ocon and Bearman is a sign of the team’s commitment to building a competitive team for the future. The team has undergone a restructuring in recent months, with Guenther Steiner remaining as team principal and a new technical director, Simone Resta, joining from Ferrari.
The team’s new VF-25 car incorporates several major changes compared to last year’s design. The car has a new nose, a new front wing, and new sidepods. The team is hoping that these changes will improve the car’s performance, especially in the areas of downforce and drag.
The Road Ahead
The 2025 Formula 1 season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent years. With new regulations, new cars, and a new generation of drivers, the season is wide open.
Ocon and Haas will be hoping to make their mark in this new era of Formula 1. Ocon’s experience and ambition, combined with Haas’ commitment to improvement, could make them a force to be reckoned with in the midfield.
