In a shocking turn of events at the 2025 Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, Esteban Ocon has spoken out against a controversial tactic used by some drivers that he branded as “horrible.” The tactic in question involved drivers intentionally slowing down to benefit their teammates, a move that Ocon vehemently opposed.
While Ocon himself was not directly instructed to employ this strategy during the race, he made it clear that he would have refused to partake in such unsportsmanlike behavior if asked. The Racing Bulls initially showcased this tactic, with Liam Lawson deliberately slowing down to create a significant gap, allowing his teammate Isack Hadjar to make crucial pit stops and secure a commendable sixth-place finish.
The Williams duo followed suit, leading to further drama on the track. This prompted frustration from Mercedes driver George Russell, who, faced with a similar situation behind Alex Albon, opted to take a penalty by going straight on at the Nouvelle Chicane to avoid being hindered by the slow-paced tactics.
Ocon expressed his disapproval of such team orders and gamesmanship that he believes undermine the true essence of racing. He emphasized that while some level of team orders is inevitable in Formula 1, the extent to which it was employed in Monaco was unacceptable and threatened the integrity of the sport.
Fellow driver Pierre Gasly echoed Ocon’s sentiments, calling for stricter measures to be implemented to prevent such tactics from tainting future races. Gasly highlighted the need to address the issue, emphasizing that allowing drivers to maintain a significantly slower pace without being challenged goes against the competitive nature of the sport.
Gasly’s refusal to engage in such tactics for the benefit of his teammate Oliver Bearman exemplified the growing discontent among drivers towards this questionable strategy. The Frenchman’s strong stance against compromising fair competition resonated with many, emphasizing the importance of upholding the principles of fair play and integrity in Formula 1.
As the debate surrounding the controversial Monaco Grand Prix tactics continues to unfold, the call for action to preserve the purity of racing intensifies. With drivers like Ocon and Gasly taking a stand against these divisive tactics, the Formula 1 community awaits potential measures to ensure that such unsportsmanlike conduct does not become the norm in the future.
