Esteban Ocon was the only driver to take the start of the Italian Grand Prix on the Medium Pirelli tyres, but did not get any opportunity to progress as the race was pretty incident-free, and the Manor Racing driver was the final finisher, two laps down on race winner Nico Rosberg.
The Frenchman was aiming for a better finish than seventeenth, but was looking for some kind of melee ahead to be able to capitalise on his choice of tyre, but when nothing was forthcoming, he was forced to drive around at the back.
“The objective was to take the chequered flag, but in a much stronger position,” said Ocon. “It was a long, tough Grand Prix from where I started.
“We were on the Medium tyre for a very long stint – 32 laps – and none of the opportunities that we hoped might change the face of the race happened. At the end, on the Soft tyre, we were really on the limit.
“So it’s good to finish, especially after the problem for Pascal [Wehrlein]’s car. That’s two race distances with a lot of learning’s about the tyres and managing races, but now I’m ready to use that experience to fight for something more. I think we were capable of much better here, so it’s a shame.”
After being disappointed with his result, Ocon is hoping his luck turns in the remaining seven races of the season, starting with the Singapore Grand Prix in two weeks time.
“The last two races have had their difficulties, but they were also my first two races in Formula 1,” said Ocon. “I achieved my dream in Spa, after a long road to get here, and when things did go our way this weekend, we saw that the car is improving, same for me.
“I’m disappointed today, but I’m looking forward to better things in the seven remaining races. It will come good for me soon.”
