P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Esteban Ocon revealed Alpine that rotated which driver holds a weight disadvantage in recent Formula 1 rounds as his car was a “a couple of kilos” heavier in Canada. Alpine entered the season braced to be on the back foot with a revised car concept, but the team’s struggles were worse than anticipated with an […]
Alpine struggled more than expected at the start of the season due to an uncompetitive A524 car concept and exceeding the minimum weight limit with too much exposed carbon. Despite introducing a new lightweight chassis at the Chinese Grand Prix, weight continues to be an issue for both Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly. Ocon revealed they have been rotating who bears the weight penalty, affecting their performance in races.
Ocon showed resilience by climbing from 18th to 10th in an impressive drive but was frustrated when the team preferred Gasly over him in a strategic decision. Alpine boss Bruno Famin downplayed any internal conflicts, pointing out that team orders are never easy for drivers to accept. Famin emphasized that decisions made during races are for the benefit of the team and should be viewed with a broader perspective.
