Ocon dismisses claims of ongoing rift with Gasly

Esteban Ocon says that contrary to popular opinion, he has a good relationship with Pierre Gasly and would have no issues working alongside his countryman at Alpine.

There was a period during their youth when, as young competitive karters, there was no love lost between Ocon and Gasly.

In 2017, the pair were reunited out on track in Formula 1, but over the years, past quarrels and disagreements have become water under the bridge.

Following the announcement of Fernando Alonso's move to Aston Martin for 2023, Ocon went on record stating that his friend Mick Schumacher would be his preferred choice as the Spaniard's replacement at Alpine.

But all signs now point to Red Bull agreeing to Gasly's early release from his contractual obligations with the energy drink family and to his move to Alpine.

"I mean, whoever will be on my side, I think the important thing for me is to, you know, guide the team in the best way possible, develop the car as best as we can," Ocon said.

"And yeah, to have respect, you know, between both drivers and a good atmosphere. I think that’s important.

"With Pierre, we have a good relationship. There is no problem. We have respect between each other.

"Whoever will be on my side, I’m sure the team will do the best choice possible, we will be able to race."

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However, Sky F1's Paul di Resta remains unconvinced that an Ocon-Gasly pairing at Alpine will prove trouble-free.

"I don’t think too many teammates get on with Ocon, to be honest," said the former F1 driver.

"You heard Fernando on the radio. They work together on track but off it? He can be quite difficult. Sergio Perez had the same issue

"This is about compensation for [Alpine] to be able to then get Gasly. A double-French line-up would be great.

"Gasly in that system, with the way he is driving, would be a credit."

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