Ocon “learning from” Hamilton

Mercedes reserve driver Esteban Ocon has said that he is “learning from him” now that he is working with Lewis Hamilton and his team, as well as Valtteri Bottas.

Ocon was unfortunate not to get a seat in Formula 1 for 2019, after being replaced at Racing Point by Lance Stroll and not finding any elsewhere.

Mercedes gave the role of reserve driver to Ocon after having helped him previously, with the potential for getting a seat with the team next year as a replacement for Bottas.

The Frenchman has praised the hard work of Hamilton after being behind the scenes and helping out in the first week of testing.

Ocon said as he joined the team in Barcelona: “Listening to Lewis in the debrief is something great because of how he works and how intense he is.

“You pick up things and it’s very impressive to see him work so hard. So I’m learning from him.

“I’m learning every day, I’m working the same as if I was racing, looking at Valtteri’s and Lewis’ data and speaking to different departments to pick up bits.”

Even though he is not one of the drivers he very much expects and will be involved in the team whether it’s with the team at the track or back at the factory.

 “I’ve been settling in well, getting to know everyone,” Ocon said.

“Being part of this fantastic team is such a pleasure and it’s very special as they have been the world champions and very successful.

“I’m doing a lot of simulator work and very in touch with the team. I spend a lot of time in Brackley and with the team," he noted. “It’s a good new role, it’s very interesting and I’m learning a lot but for sure I look forward to test the car.

“I’m very hungry and can't wait to get in [the car].”