AUGUST 15, 2016

No new reserve driver for Renault

Renault says it will not appoint an official replacement for reserve driver Esteban Ocon.

Ocon has been called up to make his F1 race debut from the forthcoming Belgian grand prix and beyond, replacing Manor's out-of-funds Rio Haryanto.

"It is an outstanding opportunity for Esteban to gather mileage and race experience in a young, stable and very professional team," said Renault's Cyril Abiteboul.

Renault will clearly take the opportunity to assess Ocon's potential with a view to a race cockpit for 2017.

But what about 2016? Ocon was on loan from Mercedes as Renault's official reserve driver - so will the French marque now appoint a replacement?

"We won't be naming another third driver," Renault declared. "One of our lucky drivers already under contract will get the call if needed!"

Renault is referring to 20-year-old Canadian Nicholas Latifi, and the GP2 series leader and Russian Sergey Sirotkin.

(GMM)