Force India’s Esteban Ocon has emphasised that he is still on “big learning curve” but is chasing another top 10 finish at this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix.
This year marks Ocon’s first full campaign in a race seat in Formula 1, having tested for Mercedes and Renault in 2016, before making his debut with the now extinct Manor team mid-season.
Mercedes-backed Ocon switched to Force India for 2017, alongside Sergio Pérez, and captured a point on his first outing for the team in Australia, having overhauled Fernando Alonso during the closing stages.
Ocon reckons he can compete for the points once more when the sport visits China this weekend, but is cautious that he still has a lot to understand.
“In Melbourne I said that I am on a big learning curve and the same will be true in China,” he explained.
“I still need to build my speed with the VJM10 – it’s about exploring the limits of the car and understanding how to manage the tyres during qualifying and the race.
“What we learned in Melbourne will certainly make things a bit easier this weekend, but you never stop learning in this sport.
“I’ve never driven at the Shanghai circuit, so it’s going to be another new track for me to learn on Friday.
“After the street circuit of Melbourne, it will be nice to go to a track which is the complete opposite with lots of open space.
“I think the car should be more suited to Shanghai, but it’s hard to know until we get there and drive. The goal, once again, is to score some points.”
Ocon also revelled in the manner in which he and Force India have developed a strong working relationship in a short period of time.
“I’ve settled in nicely to this team and I’m working well with my engineers and my car crew,” he said.
“It’s important to feel comfortable and I like the way we do things. It’s a very open atmosphere and the team understands what I need from the car.”
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