Renault Managing Director Cyril Abiteboul says that he will able to judge Esteban Ocon better after his move to Manor replacing Rio Haryanto.
Ocon has been tipped to drive for the French Manufacturer in 2017 and Abiteboul will look at the 19-year-olds driving abilities.
Speaking to NBC, Abiteboul spoke about the Situation with Ocon. “Esteban joining Manor Racing for the last nine races of the season demonstrates the excellent relationship Renault and Mercedes have maintained for several years,” Abiteboul said. It is an outstanding opportunity for Esteban to gather mileage and race experience in a young, stable and very professional team.
“He will be up against a highly rated and quick teammate, which will enable us to evaluate him in a representative environment. I hope this experience will be of great benefit for him and for Renault in the near future.”
There is much speculation surrounding the seats at Renault with Kevin Magnussen and Jolyon Palmer under pressure to perform. Ocon could be the perfect choice for Renault if he shows a maturity and speed in full time racing seat at Manor.
Team Principal Frederic Vasseur explains why the decision won’t be announced until at least next month.
“At the moment our focus is to keep getting the best from the car,” he said. “We have two drivers that are motivated so the second part of the year is to keep track of expectations and see where we are. In reality we won’t take any decision before September for sure – we have no time! But it is up to us and we will take a decision when we are ready.”
