P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Following a difficult pre-season test for Alpine, suggestions have emerged that the French manufacturer has taken a step backwards in the pecking order this year.
Esteban Ocon has acknowledged the possibility of Alpine starting the new Formula 1 season with the slowest car in the field based on their challenging pre-season testing in Bahrain. While uncertainty remains until after qualifying, it is suggested that Alpine might have the least competitive car. Ocon expressed readiness for any outcome and emphasized the need to keep pushing forward despite potential setbacks. He highlighted that pre-season testing helped Alpine identify their main issue, which they are working to resolve. Ocon also noted the upcoming race in Saudi Arabia could present a different challenge with its unique track characteristics.
