Esteban Ocon admits he was “upset” by Renault’s decision to backtrack on a contract offer for 2019 but does still have a final chance to make the Formula 1 grid.
The Frenchman’s dilemma has been one of the closest followed in recent weeks with an exit from Force India looming at the end of the year at the latest and no lucrative choices elsewhere.
Back at the Hungarian Grand Prix, however, all appeared bright for his future with a contract at Renault seemingly on the brink of being signed before Daniel Ricciardo snatched it during the summer.
“I was surprised when Renault signed a contract with Daniel Ricciardo. Renault has explained that it was because I was in the Mercedes programme, but I do not agree with Cyril Abiteboul,” Ocon said in Sochi
“Yes I’m a Mercedes driver, but if I was in a Renault that wouldn’t matter. I’m a little upset that as a sportsman, it’s not only your sporting achievements that matter.”
His most likely chance appears to come with Williams, a Mercedes customer, but some don’t believe it would be a good idea for the 21-year-old based on their current lack of competitiveness.
Also, as Ocon himself pointed out; “I don’t know whether I can go to Williams,” he told France’s TF1 as his lack of sponsors may not meet with the Grove outfit’s need for revenue.
“We are negotiating and we hope that everything will work out. Not having a contract for next season is not a catastrophe but you never know how things will develop in F1.
“What I can promise is that next year I will do my best to be back in the championship in 2020.”
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A final lifeline may just come from an unexpected source with Haas not ruling out taking any driver, regardless of manufacturer backing, for next season.
“You always consider because they are both good drivers,” Steiner said, including current F2 championship leader George Russell in his comments.
“But then again we need to look after ourselves and I think the problem is for Mercedes.”
The Italian also claimed a decision is likely before the Japanese GP in two weeks time.