Esteban Ocon: I'd Challenge Max Verstappen for Formula 1 championship with equal equipment

Alpine driver Esteban Ocon believes he could give Red Bull's Max Verstappen a run for his money in the Formula 1 World Championship if both drivers were provided with equal machinery.

Ocon and Verstappen first crossed paths during the 2014 FIA Formula 3 Championship, where Ocon clinched the series title, while Verstappen finished third overall.

However, the Dutchman has since enjoyed significantly more success in F1, boasting an impressive tally of 41 Grand Prix victories and two World Championship crowns.

In stark contrast, Ocon has merely a solitary Grand Prix triumph to his credit, a stunning and well-deserved win at the treacherous 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix. The Frenchman has been plagued by a lack of competitive machinery, which has hindered his ability to consistently challenge at the front of the grid.

Considering Verstappen's current teammate, Sergio Perez, has struggled to match the Dutchman's pace, Ocon hinted that he would be capable of going head-to-head with him.

"If we were driving identical cars, I can envision myself battling Verstappen for the World Championship," Ocon revealed during an interview with DAZN.

"Max has been exceptional, dominating with Red Bull, but the driver's identity is inconsequential to me. My objective is to contend for the Championship. I have always believed in my abilities. Although the road ahead is long, I am determined to become World Champion."

Since his debut in F1 in 2016, Ocon has built a reputation as a tenacious competitor, occasionally coming into contact with his former Force India teammate, Sergio Perez. This led the team to impose team orders, preventing them from fighting each other for position.

Ocon notably tangled with Verstappen during the 2018 Brazilian Grand Prix as he attempted to unlap himself, resulting in a post-race altercation between the two drivers. The Frenchman admitted that his forceful driving style was well-known.

"To be honest, I don't want to be seen as a tough guy because I'm actually quite amiable on the track," Ocon remarked.

"However, my approach to racing is robust. It may be true, but I am content with it."

The upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, set to take place on Sunday, 2 July at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria, is the next event on the F1 calendar.