Esteban Ocon is hoping his “patience will be rewarded” as he eyes a return to Formula 1 next season.
The former Force India driver has been watching on alongside Toto Wolff in his current role as Mercedes reserve driver and had been tipped to replace Valtteri Bottas in 2020.
However, after the Finn’s strong performances this season, it appears certainly at this point, Ocon is relying on finding a seat elsewhere.
“It’s not easy to not be in the car, especially at a place like Montreal, but my management team is working hard to get me a ride for next year,” he told Le Journal de Montreal.
“I have to show patience and I hope it will be rewarded. I help the team a lot in moving the car forward and I’m learning a lot. It’s no coincidence that they have won the last championships.”
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Despite two wins and much closer fight with Lewis Hamilton, Bottas confirmed there had not been any talks regarding the extension to his contract for next year.
“There’s still nothing to talk about with the team or anyone else,” he was quoted by GPFans.com.
“We are at the same stage as we were when the season started. There is no word mentioned about next year. It’s the situation right now.”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff added: “Valtteri has been driving very well and it has been quite unbelievable to see how he has improved his performances since last year.
“It’s important now that he keeps his current level so that we can start discussing the future.”
