Source: Force India F1 Media

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Force India: Ocon-Renault not a done deal

Force India: Ocon-Renault not a done deal

20-07-2018 17:39
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Jake Williams-Smith

Force India remain adamant that there is not a deal in place currently that would mean Esteban Ocon would jump to Renault at the end of the 2018 season. The team maintain they want to continue their relationship with Ocon beyond the current season.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1 following the conclusion of free practice two on Friday, Force India chief operating officer Otmar Szafnaeur reiterated his belief that a deal between the Renault team and his driver wasn't done yet.

“I don’t think a deal (with Renault) is done,” he said.

“We have got the option to keep him and it is our option and not Renault’s.

“And the nice thing is that Esteban wants to stay, so that’s always good.”

Upon being asked whether or not Force India would struggle to maintain their level of performance they have enjoyed over the past few seasons, Szafnaeur admitted that it may be tough but that the team are ready for the fight.

“In the 10 years I have been here we have always been in a bit of a tight spot.

“We just try to do the best we can with what we have. It doesn’t seem to get easier in Formula 1 but we’ll get through it and we still have a great chance of finishing fourth this year.”