Ocon Has To Prove Himself To Mercedes This Year

Force India's Esteban Ocon feels that this 2018 season is when he has to prove himself to Mercedes, if he wants to end up at the Silver Arrows. The Mercedes-protégé has said that he has to "confirm" his abilities to the Silver Arrows this season.

Ocon completed his first full season in the Formula One last season with Mercedes' lead customer Force India, and looked very impressive. Lewis Hamilton is reportedly very close to extend his contract at Mercedes, but the second seat, currently occupied by Valtteri Bottas, is up for grabs after this season. Both Bottas and Ocon need to prove themselves to be worthy of Mercedes in 2018.

"I think this is going to be one of the most important years of my career," Ocon told Motorsport.com. "I learned a lot last year, and this year everyone is waiting for me to confirm, which is normal. My bosses are looking at it too."

The 21-year-old didn't want to react to the suggestion that he's driving for a seat at Mercedes in 2019.

Mercedes team boss has already stated that he expects Ocon to be out-performing his teammate Sergio Perez this season, which is something the Frenchman will be focussing on, as he was outqualified 13-7 last season.

"I felt that all of last year I was fast in the races but I was lacking a bit of qualifying pace, especially in the beginning of the year," said Ocon.

Ocon ended his interview by saying that he wants to have his first ever podium finish this season, which is the same goal as his teammate Sergio Perez.