Esteban Ocon’s rise through the ranks to Formula 1 has been marked by resilience and sacrifice, illustrating the essence of the Esteban Ocon humble racing journey. Unlike many drivers who benefit from financial backing, Ocon’s path was powered by persistent hard work and his family’s unwavering support. His family sold their home and business to finance his karting career, traveling across Europe in a caravan to follow his races. These hardships laid the foundation for his advancement in motorsport.

The French driver’s talent was soon recognized by the Lotus junior team, and later he earned a spot with Mercedes after winning championships in European Formula 3 and GP3. These early successes set Ocon on the path to reach Formula 1 where he now competes at the top of the sport. During an exclusive interview at the British Grand Prix, he reflected on how his challenging upbringing shaped him as a driver and as a person.

It hasn’t been the easy way, for sure,

the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix winner recalls. All my life has been tough, sacrifice, no comfort. The difficult way, no luxury, nothing. It was as tough as it can get.

Ocon explained that experiencing hardship has made him appreciate his achievements even more.

But when you have a little bit of a sweet taste, you realise and you enjoy a lot more what you have. I will always keep that. Feet to the ground is the most important thing. Remember where you come from.

The Drive to Achieve Championship Glory

Having reached Formula 1 and celebrated his first race win, Ocon’s ambitions continue to grow. He is determined to reach the ultimate goal of winning the world championship—a dream that motivates every season. Reflecting on his career milestones, he said,

My aim is to fight for titles and win races. I’ve won one [race], I’ve got to Formula 1. The first two parts of the dream is done. But the biggest one, is the last one, is to win the championship. That’s my main goal for the future and that’s the one to conquer.

His maiden grand prix victory in Budapest is a source of pride for both Ocon and his family. The A521 Alpine car he drove to that win is displayed in his father’s garage in Normandy, serving as a symbol of their shared achievement and sacrifice.

I can tell you that the stress level was very high for a long time,

Ocon admitted, referring to pressures beyond sport. He feels proud that his parents have regained stability, with his father now able to focus on maintaining Esteban’s cars rather than working in his old garage.

But I’m proud that my parents have a house, my dad has his garage like he had before. He doesn’t have to work in that sense to repair cars. He works for my cars, which is the right way around. Something that we’ve always dreamed of.

With the financial and familial burdens eased, Ocon is now able to concentrate fully on racing and pursuing his dream.

Now it’s all down to me, that pressure has gone because everything is OK. I just have to focus on the racing, enjoy what I get and focus on my dream. Obviously I’m not going to win this year. But if I do everything right, I believe I will have the opportunity one day.

The Relentless Competitor on the Circuit

Esteban Ocon has developed a reputation on track for his firm, uncompromising style of racing. His competitive nature often leads to physical battles with other drivers, including clashes with teammates. Ocon views racing as a fight that reflects the perseverance he learned through life.

I think all my life nothing came easy, I had to fight for it,

he explained. This mentality carries over into every race, where he fights as hard as anyone else on the grid. Ocon compared his generation’s approach to racing against rivals like Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc.

He described a style of racing where being on the outside line often meant being pushed into gravel traps, emphasizing the toughness required to compete at the highest level. This style has shaped Ocon and his contemporaries into fierce competitors who embrace close, aggressive wheel-to-wheel racing.

Banging wheels and all that, it’s fun. This is why I enjoy racing wheel-to-wheel.

Maintaining Humility Amid Success and Recognition

Outside the cockpit, Ocon is known for his humility and humility despite the fame and wealth associated with being an F1 driver. He remains grounded and committed to staying true to his roots. For him, maintaining humility is essential and non-negotiable.

I hate the people that basically change and become someone different just because they have a bit of success. This is honestly the worst thing,

Ocon stated firmly.

Showing his self-awareness and humor, he added,

I’ve always said to my friends, you can slap me in the face if you think one day I’m completely different, or I say weird things, or become, I don’t know how you say it in English… a twat.

He joked lightly about his “cheek” still being intact, signaling his commitment to remain unaffected by status and fame.

My cheek is still alright right now, so that’s good,

Ocon added with a laugh.

The Road Ahead for Esteban Ocon

Now secured in Formula 1 and free from the financial and personal pressures that once burdened his family, Esteban Ocon’s journey is far from over. His focus remains locked on competing fiercely on track and chasing the championship he has long dreamed of. Ocon’s story is a testament to how determination, sacrifices, and staying humble can lead to success at the highest levels of motorsport.

With his supportive family by his side and a reputation for fierce but respectful driving, Ocon is positioned to continue making an impact in Formula 1 seasons to come, inspiring fans with both his talent and character.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. What happened with Esteban Ocon?

A. After the Qatar Grand Prix, he moved from Alpine to Haas for the 2025 season, teaming up with Oliver Bearman. By the 2025 British Grand Prix, Ocon had one race victory, the fastest lap once, and four podium finishes in Formula One. He is set to stay with Haas through at least the end of the 2026 season.