Revelation of the start of the season, Esteban Ocon has never stopped to strengthen since its arrival at Force India. Fifth of the last meeting in Spain, the Frenchman will be race in Monaco for the first time this week-end.

« Driving in Monaco is going to be a new experience for me, said the member of the Mercedes Young Driver Program. I’ve never raced there before. I used to come and watch the Formula One races when I was young, but I never had the opportunity to race there. »

Determined to shine in the Principality, Force India’s driver carefully prepared the sixth round of the championship by spending many hours on the simulator. Aware that he will not have to be impatient on track, the Frenchman wants to be competitive ahead of its many fans.

« It’s a very special place and I always feel a sense of history when I go there, said Esteban. The city is forever linked with Formula One and it’s currently the number one race of the year. For the drivers it gives a big rush of adrenaline and everybody knows it’s a big challenge. »

© Jean-François Galeron

Recruited by Renault to replace Kevin Magnussen, Nico Hulkenberg was kick to justify the confidence placed in him by the French team. Extremely strong in qualifying, the German also get three consecutive entries in the points before to start the most legendary race of the calendar.

« There is no track like Monaco , said the 2015 24 Hours of le Mans winner. It’s the highlight of the year. It’s unique and special in every aspect. There is no place like it to give you a sensation of speed. »

If he didn’t manage a good performance each year on the Monegasque track, the Renault’s driver hopes to get a good result in 2017. But to reach his goal on Sunday, the German knows that a good starting grid is essential. »

« Overtaking is hard but it is a thrilling race and a huge challenge, reveals Nico. Physically is not the most demanding track, but mentally it’s a really tough one. You have to keep all the time a high level of concentration. I really love racing at Monaco . »

© Jean-François Galeron