F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Ocon leaves tensions behind and moves on to Austria

Esteban Ocon will give himself a fresh start at the Red Bull Ring next weekend, leaving behind the tensions which lingered in the aftermath of a complicated race in Baku.

The Force India driver finished P6 in Azerbaijan, wrestling is way into the points after a run-in with team mate Sergio Perez which left the Mexican as collateral damage.

Tensions flared up after the event with Perez pointing the finger at the Frenchman, but both drivers were summoned to a meeting with management who reminded them that the team's interests came first and foremost.

Ocon has received the message loud and clear.

"It's necessary to focus on the future rather than the past. We have discussed everything so it will not happen again," he said.

The 20-year-old which has enjoyed a remarkable season so far will be aiming for another point's-scoring finish in the hills of Speilberg, which he knows well.

"Austria is a track I know much better than the previous ones on which we have raced so far this season.

"I drove there a lot in the junior categories and I tested for Sahara Force India there in 2015. It’s a great place and the altitude makes it a challenge for the engine and the brakes.

"The circuit doesn’t have many corners, but it’s still difficult to get a perfect lap.

"In particular, the last two corners are the most enjoyable in the track because they’re quite tricky and even a small mistake can ruin a good lap right at the end.

"There is no real secret to finding time around the lap; you just have to get the details right and make it stick all weekend."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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