Esteban Ocon was present at the Ferrari factory on Lewis Hamilton’s first day of racing
Haas driver Esteban Ocon has revealed that Lewis Hamilton's first day at Ferrari created a « crazy atmosphere. »
Last week, Lewis Hamilton made his first steps in Maranello. He captured the world’s attention with an iconic photo taken in front of Enzo Ferrari’s former home.
Last Wednesday, he took to the track for the first time at the wheel of the 2023 Ferrari single-seater at the Fiorano circuit.
Lewis Hamilton continued his preparation for the new season this week, with several days of testing in Barcelona alongside Charles Leclerc.
Esteban Ocon present at the Ferrari factory
It turns out that Esteban Ocon was present at the Ferrari factory on the Briton’s first day with the team.
Esteban Ocon left Alpine to join Haas this season, where he will team up with Ferrari protégé, Oliver Bearman.
As Haas does not have its own simulator, Esteban Ocon used it on Lewis Hamilton’s first day in Maranello, as part of the partnership between the two teams.
Speaking to Canal+, the Frenchman stated: « I was lucky to be in the same place on the same day, as I was also on the Ferrari simulator. There was an incredible atmosphere, people were buzzing, and it’s just wonderful to see that there is so much passion for Ferrari and for F1 in the world, and that it continues to grow. »
« It’s clear that seeing the greatest driver of our generation in the most successful team is just incredible. I can’t wait to be able to battle on the track with him, that’s for sure. »
A new start at Haas
After five seasons with Alpine, Esteban Ocon is embarking on a new adventure with Haas in 2025.
The Frenchman joins Haas at a good time, the team having had a solid 2024 season finishing seventh in the constructors’ championship.
Alpine overtook Haas in the final standings mainly thanks to a double podium finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix at the end of the season.
Overall, Haas dominated the midfield for much of 2024, a testament to the remarkable work accomplished by the team director, Ayao Komatsu.
Read also: The passage of Esteban Ocon at Alpine in figures
