Lewis Hamilton could be set for a new Mercedes team-mate in the near future with Esteban Ocon stating it is only a “matter of time” before he joins the team. Ocon is midway through his second full season in Formula One, driving for Mercedes engine customer Force India having made his debut with Manor in 2016. The 21-year-old was extremely impressive for Force India last year, pushing experienced racer Sergio Perez all the way in the driver’s standings. The 2018 season has been a bit more frustrating for Ocon with no top 10 finish since Monaco in May and three retirements this year. But he is clearly well thought of in the Mercedes-Benz driver development programme.
However, Ocon has revealed assurances from Mercedes that he will soon be given a seat with the Silver Arrows. “The bosses [at Mercedes] have plans for me that are ‘not yet’,” Ocon told motorsport. “It’s not the plan for now. I think they want me to have more experience before I jump in that car. I knew that already. I have targets I have to respect “At the moment they are happy with the job I’m doing. It’s just a matter of time, I think.” Ocon had been linked with joining Renault for 2019 but those rumours were quickly put to bed when Daniel Ricciardo announced he would be moving there.
But the Frenchman is comfortable about his future in the sport, suggesting Mercedes is his long-term goal. ”My future will be sorted out soon. I’m not worried at all. I’m not in a position [with] the knife under my chin. “The job we are doing with Force India this year is strong and everyone is happy with that. “I’m not in a position where I have to perform at any cost, and take massive risks in the race – I don’t feel like that.”
The report adds McLaren could be a viable option on loan terms for Ocon should he decide to leave Force India. Carlos Sainz was announced as Fernando Alonso’s replacement for next season and there remains question marks over Stoffel Vandoorne.
