Ocon aware of Force India's higher expectations for 2018

©ForceIndia

Esteban Ocon is no longer a rookie, but foregoing the label also means higher expectations from his team in 2018.

The French driver's first complete formative year in Formula 1, after his debut with Manor in 2016, has been nothing short of remarkable.

With the exception of Brasil, where a collision with Romain Grosjean on the opening lap left him stranded, Ocon finished every single race with Force India in 2017, and clocked in eighth in the final drivers' standings just 13 points adrift from team mate Sergio Perez.

With its driver's refined talent now on tap, Force India will be looking for Ocon to sustain his momentum, as long as the package beneath him allows him to do so.

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"I understand that they expect more from me, because I'm not a rookie anymore," says the 21-year-old.

"But having got into Formula 1, I no longer experience stress. It is only a pleasure to race at the highest level."

Recently, Sergio Perez expressed his desire to see Force India let its driver race again after team orders dictated new rules of engagement in 2017 following Perez's and Ocon's multiple on-track clashes and flash points.

Ocon is also for more freedom, as it creates emulation. But he's also aware that both men will have to refrain from any controversial or ill-inspired moves between themselves.

"Sergio and I both understand that this year we crossed some lines and missed chances to earn extra points for the team.," he admits.

"But in terms of results it was the best season for Force India, and our rivalry played a certain role in that."

Speculation is slowly ramping up about Ocon's future and his potential move to Mercedes in 2019. While the German manufacturer is keeping an eye on its protégé, what happens in twelve months is still mere conjecture.

"In the end, the decision is not made by me, and I fully trust Mercedes with regard to my career," says Ocon.

"Since I joined their programme, they always chose the right option for me. For now I'm focused on my work at Force India."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.