Ocon to run FP1 in Hungary and aim for a Renault place in 2017

The young Frenchman Esteban Ocon continues to slip into Formula 1 cockpits. After a session with Renault during the British Grand Prix, he then participated in post-race tests on the Silverstone track behind the wheel of the Mercedes.

In Hungary, it is once again Renault that will allow him to participate in FP1, as confirmed by the brand’s sporting director, Frédéric Vasseur: « Esteban drove with us during FP1 at Silverstone before two test days with Mercedes AMG. So we are going to check what he is allowed to tell us about it! The plan now is for him to participate once more in FP1 in Hungary as part of his program for the season. »

Precious track time for the team to form a real opinion on the Frenchman’s level, with a view to a possible appointment in 2017: « After that, we will have a better overview of his potential, but he is a natural candidate for one of our seats for 2017. » Vasseur stated.

But Ocon doesn’t want to rush things yet, even though there are rumors that he might replace Jolyon Palmer by the end of the year: « My goal is now to be in F1 next year and I will work as hard as possible for that. Mercedes has been happy with my work. I’ve been in the paddock for quite some time now, so yes, I’m ready to race as soon as an opportunity comes up. The bosses will decide what they want at Renault, but I feel ready to race in Formula 1 now. For the moment, it’s too early to talk about it. I still have some FP1 sessions to do with them. I will continue to work and focus on my goal, » the Frenchman stated.

For his part, Palmer is not overly concerned about the pressure put on his shoulders by the Frenchman: « I know him very well, he’s a team member, and I’m not worried about my seat in relation to him. I remain focused on what I have to do. »