'Because I'm Not French!' - Szafnauer Reveals Clarkson's Podium Joke

A hilarious moment in the Formula 1 paddock often comes from unexpected places. This time, former Alpine team boss Otmar Szafnauer has revealed an amusing comment made by Jeremy Clarkson after a historic podium at the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix.

Clarkson, famous for his automotive shows, has described the Enstone-based team as his 'local team'. His close relationship with the squad has seen him attend grands prix with them in various guises. At the 2023 Monaco GP, he made an unusual promise.

"Esteban finished on the podium in Monaco, and during that race, Jeremy Clarkson said, 'If my neighbours finish on the podium, I'm going to give each one of them a six-pack of Hawkstone,'" Szafnauer recounted on the High Performance Racing podcast, as reported by Crash.net.

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That promise was far from a surefire thing. Before Monaco, Esteban Ocon had only scored points twice that season, and Alpine's best finish was eighth. But Ocon achieved the goal, and Clarkson was good to his word in spectacular fashion.

"Sure enough, he came with the Lamborghini [tractor], and behind the Lamborghini was a massive farm trailer with hay and full of beer. Everyone got a six-pack of beer," Szafnauer added.

The funniest moment came during the interview. Szafnauer was standing next to Clarkson, and Ocon, holding the mic, thanked Clarkson in front of the crew. "Esteban said, 'I'd really like to thank Jeremy Clarkson not just for giving us each a six-pack of beer, but for being true to his word.'"

"And he's [Clarkson] standing next to me, and you know what he yelled? 'That's 'cause I'm not French!'" Szafnauer recalled with a laugh. Clarkson's typical jibe lightened the mood further.

Clarkson's relationship with Alpine continued at this year's British Grand Prix, with his Diddly Squat farm providing produce for the team's hospitality across the weekend. The presence of the controversial personality seems to add a unique flavor to the midfield squad.