Esteban Ocon will no longer be a Mercedes-backed driver if he races for another team in Formula 1 next season.
The Frenchman made his way into F1 thanks to the German manufacturer in mid-2016, but it was his association which led to him failing to land a seat for 2019 after it became clear Lance Stroll would replace him at Racing Point.
As a result, he is spending this season as reserve driver at Mercedes with speculation linking him to Valtteri Bottas' seat for 2020, but because of the Finn's improved form, it is looking less likely that move will happen.
Rumours of Ocon rejoining Renault have emerged to take Nico Hulkenberg's drive, but if any option arises for the 22-year-old then Mercedes will let him go.
"Everyone recognises Esteban's talent and I truly believe he should have a permanent position in Formula 1 because he is one of the best talents of his generation," team boss Toto Wolff was quoted by GPFans.com.
"Unfortunately last year we were victims of a very particular market situation.
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"We need to make things clear to allow him to pursue his career in a way that respects the investment and support that Mercedes have given him, obviously without closing open doors from those who showed interest in him.
"If he is in another team he will be released regardless, he will no longer be a Mercedes driver because if you drive for another team you will be called to give the best for that team."
Should Ocon leave, it will mean a similar ending to that of current Formula E driver Pascal Wehrlein who left the Mercedes program at the end of last year having lost his F1 seat at Sauber at the end of 2017.
