Ocon admits to self-pressure

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Formula 1 rookie Esteban Ocon believes he has his own high expectations when it comes to achieving success as a Grand Prix driver, and he applies pressure to himself accordingly.

The 19-year-old French hopeful graduated to Manor at Spa a few weeks ago after starting the season as Mercedes protégé and Renault's reserve driver.

Ocon's double-bill support from both Mercedes and Renault almost guarantees his future in F1, as long as he delivers the goods expected from him. But when it comes to pressure, the rookie says he is the first to push himself.

"Yes, the expectations are high," admits Ocon in an interview with Formula1.com.

"But the biggest pressure comes from my side. I want to do well. I want to perform well and make my team happy.

"I am not really worried. Right now I am here to learn. Mercedes and Renault had a common interest to put me in Manor - to prepare me for the future, to give me a good schooling. I am here with that perspective."

Ocon's immediate aim in the short will be to compare favourably at Manor with his highy-rated team mate and fellow Mercedes protégé Pascal Wehrlein.

"For sure there will be competition between Pascal and me, but that is why this is F1 and not kindergarten. But having said that, there is no extra pressure on me.

"I am sure that when I show good performance I will have a long-term future in F1. But, of course, I have to deliver."

As Renault ramps up its efforts as a works team and success hopefully follows in the coming years, many believe Ocon could be the man to spearhead an all-French triumph in F1. Obviously, that prospect appeals to the young driver.

"For sure. Renault has been champion in the past and I have been working with them since my very beginning. So, yes, that would be a dream come true - but first of all I have to do a good job this season."

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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.