No sense in comparing Mercedes and Renault - Ocon

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Esteban Ocon has had an opportunity this year to sample Formula 1 cars racing at both ends of the grid.

The Frenchman, initially contracted as a Renault test driver, which he remains in priority, enjoys the unusual privilege of being 'lent out' on occasion to Mercedes for which he races this season in the German DTM series.

The luxury has thus brought him a diverse wealth of F1 experience, and although one would obviously focus on his performance in a Silver Arrows, Ocon believes any comparison between Mercedes and Renault is useless.

"You cannot really compare them," the young Frenchman insists.

"They are two teams amazing to work with. They have been world champions both of them. I am thankful for the opportunity they give me.

"It’s great for my development. I’m learning every day with them. I still have a lot to learn but those two days were very useful for me."

As a direct result of Ocon's dual relationship with both manufacturers', one wonders if he would ever be inclined to have one team - in this case, logically Renault - profit from his knowledge and experience of the other?

"It depends if they have to make me not say anything there!" Ocon answers tongue in cheek.

"But no, it should be fine. You have to be professional. That’s how I am. I have to be professional and work that way."

In any case, the 19-year-old native from Normandy, has his sights firmly set on becoming a fully-fledged Grand Prix driver next season, although it's early days still for Renault to decide the fate of its talented test driver.

"The boss will decide what they want there at Renault. My target is to be in F1 next year so I'm working as much as I can and getting ready for next year.

"The team was happy. I'm ready to race. I've been there for a long time around the F1 paddock, so yeah, I'm ready to race whenever there is an opportunity. "

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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.