Speculations of Esteban Ocon replacing Nico Hulkenberg at Renault Formula 1 team have finally been confirmed.
Ocon is returning to Fromula 1 next year at Renault’s platform after signing a deal.
Ocon has been highly rated in F1 and Mercedes had him for 2019 season reserve driver. But the team went with Valtteri Bottas for next season.
However, as Toto Wolff had asserted to find a place for Ocon next season, he is confirmed to drive alongside Daniel Ricciardo at Renault for F1 2020.
Ocon has signed a commitment of two years with the French team. He said: “I am very proud to become a Renault driver.
“I have grown up at Enstone, starting with Lotus in 2010 and then with Renault. I am very attached to this team and everyone who works there; they are the ones who opened the doors of top level motorsport for me.
“Secondly, I am pleased that a team with big ambitions has entrusted me with the opportunity to once again demonstrate my skills at the highest level of F1. It is a responsibility I take very seriously.
“The confidence they have in me to help the progression of the team is a very positive pressure and I look forward to giving the best of myself.”
Ocon has gained experience with Renault as reserve driver in 2016. Ocon manage to perform with Manor Racing at the end of 2016 season, while he impressed at Force India in following two seasons of 2017 and 2018.
His performance would have won him a seat at Renault in 2019 but Ricciardo decision to move-out from Red Bull left him stranded.
Ocon was welcomed back at Mercedes and team was tempted to take him on board along with Lewis Hamilton.
But five times world champion opted for Valtteri Bottas to be his team mate. This opened an opportunity for Renault hire the talent for 2020.
“He has shown his ability to score points, has great professionalism on and off the track, plus his recent experience as reserve driver to the current world champions will be a valuable asset to the development of our entire team,” said Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul.
