Esteban Ocon says he believed for a while that he was on course for his maiden Formula 1 podium at the Mexican Grand Prix, after running in third place during the opening stages.
Ocon profited from a bold approach to Turn 1, and the problems which befell others, to hold third place, behind only Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas.
However, Ocon was overhauled by Kimi Räikkönen, who extended his first stint and pitted under the Virtual Safety Car, before the other Ferrari of Sebastian Vettel moved ahead later on.
Ocon ultimately came home in fifth position, equalling the best result of his nascent career, as Force India wrapped up fourth spot in the Constructors’ Championship.
“Fifth place in the race and securing fourth place in the championship is a fantastic achievement after a strong season,” said Ocon.
“For a while I believed the podium was possible because I was sitting in third place for so long.
“I made a great start and then I pushed as hard as I could in the free air. Sadly the Virtual Safety Car gave Kimi an advantage during the pit stops and he was able to overtake us.
“The final few laps of the race with [Lance] Stroll behind me were not easy. He had fresher tyres and managed to catch me, so I had to give it everything to stay ahead.
“When you work so hard for a result it feels very satisfying.”
Team-mate Sergio Pérez came home in seventh position, having also rued the timing of the VSC.
“It’s just a shame that the Virtual Safety Car happened at the wrong moment because it allowed Stroll to jump ahead of me,” said Pérez.
“Otherwise I think we could have finished in sixth. The main objective of the weekend was to confirm fourth place in the championship so I’m extremely happy that we have done this with two races to spare.”
