Ocon set for Monte-Carlo special stage runs with Alpine

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Esteban Ocon will showcase Alpine's A110S in a series of special stage runs on Thursday's opening day of the 2021 Rallye Monte-Carlo.

The Alpine F1 driver - who will have his #31 race number emblazoned on the A110S - will enjoy his first rally experience, passing through two stages as the official VIP course.

"This is a fantastic opportunity and I certainly cannot wait to experience Rallye Monte-Carlo for the first time," said Ocon.

"It’s a legendary event, a jewel in the calendar of motorsport and I know how special being part of it will be. I’m looking forward to driving the beautiful Alpine A110S.

"I had my first taste of the A110 in October with three laps of the Nordschleife. It was great that day; very comfortable and agile to drive.

"It’s born for this kind of challenge with the tight hairpins and mountain passes.

"Rallying has actually always been a dream for me, so driving the A110S in Monte-Carlo is a brilliant way to begin the year."

Read also: Renault boss de Meo lays out Alpine F1's clear-cut goal for 2021

Alpine has a five strong A110 entry in the Monte's RGT class.

"This is our first activation bringing together Alpine Cars and the Alpine F1 Team with Esteban’s participation in the 2021 Rallye Monte-Carlo," commented Alpien cars managing director Patrick Marinoff.

"Alpine has a very memorable history in rallying, especially here in Monte-Carlo. So, this is the perfect place for our F1 Driver to inhale some of the brand´s finest history and at the same time enjoy the agility and exhilarating driving performance of the A110 on the iconic mountain passes it was made for.

"Alpine is well represented at this event and we look forward, not only to Esteban’s stage runs, but also how the weekend itself unfolds for our cars."

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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.