WATCH: Esteban Ocon' amazing move to get rid of Gasly and Vettel at Belgian GP 2022

In a moment that echoed one of Formula 1’s most iconic overtakes, Esteban Ocon executed a breathtaking manoeuvre during the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix. It drew comparisons to Mika Häkkinen’s legendary move against Michael Schumacher and Ricardo Zonta in 2000.

The scene unfolded on Lap 35 at Spa-Francorchamps, a circuit renowned for its dramatic racing moments. As Sebastian Vettel accelerated out of Eau Rouge onto the Kemmel Straight, he found himself flanked by Ocon and Pierre Gasly, setting the stage for a spectacular three-way battle.

Esteban Ocon, driving for Alpine, strategically positioned himself behind Vettel and Gasly as they exited La Source. Recounting the moment, Ocon explained, “I came off the gas easily, kept some distance, and then used the top speed.”

Here is the video:

Vettel ⚔️ Gasly ⚔️ Ocon



A stellar three-way fight 💪#F1 #BelgianGP pic.twitter.com/i7gUD7VoFu

— Formula 1 (@F1) July 25, 2024

His calculated approach paid off as he surged ahead, using the slipstream and the superior straight-line speed of his car. What made the manoeuvre even more impressive was that Gasly had the advantage of DRS (Drag Reduction System), allowing his car to temporarily increase its speed.

How Ocon executed Hakkinen pass?

Ocon’s ability to read the situation and time his move perfectly was reminiscent of Häkkinen’s famous pass on Schumacher and Zonta. Like Häkkinen, Esteban Ocon found himself in a high-speed chess match, where patience and precision were key. 

As the three drivers hurtled down the Kemmel Straight, Vettel, in the middle, faced a double attack from both sides. Ocon praised Vettel’s sportsmanship, noting that the four-time world champion had been “very fair” and refrained from blocking, which allowed the move to unfold without incident.

Sebastian Vettel, though left somewhat defenceless in the double attack, took the situation in stride. Speaking to Sky Sports, he humorously described the event from his perspective: “I couldn’t do anything at that moment, just keep the steering wheel straight. I didn’t want to irritate them.”