Esteban Ocon has been confirmed as Renault’s new driver for the 2020 F1 season after Mercedes confirmed they will retain Valtteri Bottas for the next season.
Having worked as Mercedes’ third and reserve driver in 2019, Ocon will return to racing in Formula 1 in 2020 with his new teammate Daniel Ricciard as Renault opted against extending contract with Nico Hulkenberg.
“First and foremost, I am very proud to become a Renault driver,” said Ocon.
“I have grown up at Enstone, starting with Lotus in 2010 and then with Renault.”
!! I’m back !! Delighted to announce I will be joining @renaultf1team . Exciting time ahead, can’t wait ??
!!?? Je suis de retour ??!! Très heureux d’annoncer que je rejoins Renault F1 team une équipe qui m’a fait grandir. Hâte de commencer ??? #EO31 pic.twitter.com/M1dfJsBnXD— Esteban Ocon (@OconEsteban) August 29, 2019
“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.”
Renault F1 Team boss Cyril Abiteboul says he and his team are very happy to secure Ocon for the next two seasons.
“We are very happy to work with Esteban for the next two seasons,” said Renault Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul.
“Over his F1 career Esteban has experienced the highs and lows of the sport, and fully understood the need to seize every possible chance.”ž
“In addition to lending his natural talent, Esteban’s aim will be to focus his natural energy and drive, both of which have been intensified by a year away from racing. It is then up to us to infuse them into the next phase of the team’s progress.”
“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.”
Hulkenberg remained without F1 seat for 2020. after spending three seasons with Renault since 2017 while Haas F1 Team boss Gunther Steiner said he is on a short list for partnering Magnussen in 2020.
