Ocon convinced Leclerc can fight for the title in 2019

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Force India's Esteban Ocon says he wouldn't be surprised to see future Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc fight for the title next season.

Leclerc's high profile move to the Scuderia, where he will replace Kimi Raikkonen alongside Sebastian Vettel, is fueling a large debate about his prospects for 2019.

While some believe the Monegasque still needs to hone his skills and boost his experience before fighting for top honours, many have suggested that the 21-year-old will hit the ground running next year.

"Charles will fight for the title next year," Ocon told Swiss newspaper Blick. "Or that would at least not be a surprise to me.

"I have known from day one that he has a lot of talent. And that's exactly what he will definitely show next year."

Vettel vows to help Leclerc, but team work 'key' for Ferrari

In the past, Lewis Hamilton and Jacques Villeneuve both won their maiden world championships in their second seasons in F1.

But Ferrari boss Maurizio Arrivabene - who will oversee Leclerc's efforts from next season - thinks his future driver will need to exert patience.

"Next year Charles must gain experience and learn from Sebastian," he told La Repubblica.

"He has the luxury of being able to face a year in which he will not be asked anything other than bringing the car to the finish line.

"He must do his (Ferrari) debut without pressure and absorb Vettel's efforts like a sponge," Arrivabene added.

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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.