The considerable goodwill generated for Esteban Ocon surrounding his uncertain future in Formula One evaporated the moment that he collided with Max Verstappen at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Lingering outrage that Ocon is unlikely to feature on the grid next season has swiftly transformed into an ostensibly unified sentiment of good riddance after the Frenchman made contact with the race leader, in an attempt to unlap himself, spinning the Dutchman in the process.
This about-face highlights the fair weathered creed of most contemporary, social media dwelling fans, where a driver is deemed only as good as their last race, living and dying by the latest mass thread of vitriol.
Ocon had been considered humble and mild-mannered, with an infectious, childlike personality, and earmarked for a Mercedes berth in the not-too-distant future – even as he faced a season on the sidelines as a victim of circumstance.
None of this absolves his clumsiness at Interlagos, when he stood to gain little (or nothing) had he completed a successful ‘overtake’, and his subsequent reluctance to admit fault wasn’t his finest hour.
“The rules say you are allowed to unlap yourself if you’re faster,” he claimed.
“I still saw I had massive pace. I went around the outside of him (Verstappen), that’s the same move I did on Fernando (Alonso), the same move I did on many other drivers.”
Of course, he omitted the crucial aspect that Verstappen was leading the race at the time.
Despite the episode, it returns to the aforementioned outrage and its enveloping culture where somebody always wants their word on the issue of the day, as contradictory as it frequently proves to a previous and often long-held stance.
As such, the tune has changed to wonder how Ocon ever deserved a seat in the first instance, his results and trademark consistency counting for nothing when others have committed far worse deeds to lesser fallout.
A ten-second stop-go penalty to the Frenchman was an appropriate punishment – anything further would have risked setting a dangerous precedent.
For his part, Verstappen wasn’t completely innocent, shoving Ocon several times in parc ferme, demonstrating that his impulsive nature continues to define him.
His anger at being deprived of victory is understandable, yet his inability to view incidents objectively remains. Time will tell whether this changes as he continues to mature – still just 21 – or if his Senna-like temperament is ingrained in his DNA.
Formula One feeds on drama, and in the wake of another championship race which fizzled out before our eyes, it was a welcome shot in the arm.
But fans shouldn’t make the mistake of pigeonholing those creating the entertainment on the basis of one action, not least when there have been countless previous instances that tell a different story.
David Joy
Guest
I think Verstappen is 100 % at fault. The only difference between Verstappens pass on Vettel and Ocon and Verstappen is Vettel had the class to leave racing room. Verstappen for whatever reason did not.Just expected in an arrogant way to use whatever part of the track he wanted. He knew Ocon was there he knew Ocon had the racing line yet he still chose to turn in.Verstappen ran into Ocon who was left with no room. He is the one who should have been given the penalty. Until the end of the race he should be given no preference because he is race leader. What would be being said if that was Lewis who had overtaken him and Verstappen turned in on him ? They are both out there to race regardless of the car or position on the track. Be very interesting to see how mad Max handles the extra pressure he will have without Daniel next year. Especially if the Honda is no better than the Renault motor.
Wayne
Roar Guru
I don't understand why Max in that situation doesn't just let him go. He isn't racing again Ocon, and can get DRS/Tow from him.
Simon G
Guest
I have read that Verstappen was complaining about the incident post race and Hamilton shut down the conversation by simply stating " You had more to lose than he did, why didn't you just let him pass?" Very wise words from Hamilton, and highlights Verstappen's over inflated ego.
Simoc
Guest
There is history between these two. Ocon asked permission from his team first and they said go for it. So if a similar situation were to occur in future Verstappen would give room to Ocon, and should have this time. But its easy to be wise in hindsight. The 10-sec penalty should have been the only penalty if there was to be a penalty. The pushing was nothing.
Tim Carter
Roar Pro
The move was rash, but the general mindset is what is required of a racer: see opportunity, try to take opportunity. I don't even think a penalty was warranted. Verstappen, on the other hand, should be sitting out Abu Dhabi for his hypocritical petulance.