Ocon looking forward to "one of the most enjoyable circuits to drive"

The Portuguese Grand Prix was on the calendar last season after the corona pandemic threw everything into disarray, it is now back on the schedule this season. The Alpine drivers are looking forward to the race which will be especially special for Fernando Alonso.

"It will be a totally different challenge this weekend from Bahrain and Imola," Alonso commented ahead in Alpine's press release. "The circuit is very fun to drive and I think it will be very exciting in these modern Formula One cars, especially with the huge elevation changes."

Alonso was not there last season, so for him, this weekend's Grand Prix will be extra special. He has not driven here before during a Formula One weekend. "I've only ever tested here in very wet conditions, so it will be a bit of a learning curve to start with, but I like new challenges. We want to score more points this weekend."

Esteban Ocon drove in Portugal last year and finished eighth at the Grand Prix. He is therefore very much looking forward to this coming weekend. "I would say Portimao is one of the most enjoyable circuits to drive. A lot of people compare it to a roller coaster because of all the elevation changes and fast corners we have. It flows really well and has some really nice corner combinations. I was very happy when Portugal was put on the calendar."