Formula 1: Esteban Ocon to replace Nico Hulkenberg at Renault in 2020

Following Mercedes’ confirmation of Valtteri Bottas, Esteban Ocon is set to replace Nico Hulkenberg at Renault beginning in the 2020 Formula 1 season.

As speculated, following the announcement that Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport are set to retain Valtteri Bottas, Esteban Ocon has been announced as the replacement for Nico Hulkenberg at Renault beginning in the 2020 Formula 1 season. He is set to join the team on a multi-year deal.

It was thought that Ocon, who currently serves as the Mercedes reserve and test driver, could be promoted to the Silver Arrows ahead of next season, but the team ultimately decided against this.

Ocon previously drove full-time for Sahara/Racing Point Force India in the 2017 and 2018 seasons, but he lost his ride after Canadian billionaire investor Lawrence Stroll led a consortium to purchase the team and replaced him with his son Lance ahead of the 2019 season.

As a result, Ocon was left completely without a ride for this year, as all of his other potential landing spots filled up.

Here is what Ocon had to say about the opportunity to return to Formula 1 driving for Renault, according to Formula 1.

"“First and foremost, I am very proud to become a Renault driver. I have grown up at Enstone, starting with Lotus in 2010 and then with Renault. I am very attached to this team and everyone who works there; they are the ones who opened the doors of top level motorsport for me.“Secondly, I am pleased that a team with big ambitions has entrusted me with the opportunity to once again demonstrate my skills at the highest level of F1. It is a responsibility I take very seriously. The confidence they have in me to help the progression of the team is a very positive pressure and I look forward to giving the best of myself.”"

Here is what Renault managing director Cyril Abiteboul had to say about Ocon.

"“We are very happy to work with Esteban for the next two seasons. Over his F1 career Esteban has experienced the highs and lows of the sport, and fully understood the need to seize every possible chance. In addition to lending his natural talent, Esteban’s aim will be to focus his natural energy and drive, both of which have been intensified by a year away from racing. It is then up to us to infuse them into the next phase of the team’s progress.“He has shown his ability to score points, has great professionalism on and off the track, plus his recent experience as reserve driver to the current world champions will be a valuable asset to the development of our entire team.”"