Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Ocon heads to DTM with ART Mercedes

Renault F1 reserve driver Esteban Ocon will be racing in DTM in 2016 with ART Grand Prix and Mercedes.

The 19-year-old French youngster is a member of the Mercedes F1 driver development program and has in the past taken part in several F1 test days with Lotus and with Force India.

While he remains in the German manufacturer's stable, Ocon has been 'loaned' to Renault as the works F1 team's reserve driver where he will continue gathering experience and honing his skills.

Ocon won the GP3 title with ART last year under the command of ART boss Frédéric Vasseur, Renault's new racing director.

He will now step up to DTM with the French outfit and race alongside British veteran Gary Paffett, as ART combine's youth with experience.

"I'm pleased to be back as part of the ART Grand Prix team," Ocon said.
"I won the GP3 title with ART last year, so it's fantastic to be working with them again and hopefully continuing our successful adventure together."

Now under the watchful eye and protectorate of two F1 manufacturers - Renault and Mercedes - Ocon's access to the pinnacle of motor racing appears greatly facilitated, but also very much in his own hands.

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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.