Ocon: 'F1 wouldn't be the same without Force India'

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Esteban Ocon's French Grand Prix was an all too brief experience, but the Force India driver hopes to make up for last Sunday's loss with a strong performance in Austria.

The Silverstone-based team's weekend in the mountains of Styria will take on a special meaning as Force India celebrates its 200th Grand Prix.

And the impressive milestone hasn't been lost on Ocon who paid a proud tribute to the pink squad and its achievements in the team's Austrian Grand Prix preview.

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"It’s a big weekend for the team - reaching 200 races in Formula One is a milestone," says the 21-year-old charger.

"I’m proud to be part of this team’s history: we represent something special on the grid and I think the sport wouldn’t be the same without Force India.

"Hopefully we can celebrate this occasion with a good result this weekend."

Last year, for his first visit to the Red Bull Ring, Ocon finished8th, hot on the heels of his team mate Sergio Perez and on a track he particularly likes.

"Austria is always a fun event. It’s a cool track and very unique because of its layout and the mountains make a very unusual setting," he confirms.

"I am looking forward to being there in the hills and the fresh air. The circuit is short and has only eight corners but that makes for a very tight grid.

"Qualifying is going to be decided by small details and any mistake will make a big difference. It’s not going to be easy."

©WRI

Ocon insists the Red Bull Ring, with its blend of fast curves and heavy braking, requires a resolute approach.

"Turns four and five - the double left corners in the middle of the circuit - are my favourite parts of the track.

"The first left hander is quite quick and you take the second almost flat out: you need to be brave getting into those corners quickly to get a good line. It’s definitely the most satisfying part of the lap."

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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.