'Replacing Hulk a tough task,' says Ocon

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By his own admittance, new recruit Esteban Ocon will have some big shoes to fill when he replaces Nico Hulkenberg at Force India next season.

The 20-year-old who made his F1 debut with manor at Spa this year, recently signed for Vijay Mallya's outfit with the departing Hulkenberg heading for Renault.

Ocon, a Mercedes protege, expressed his gratitude to Force India and the confidence it has shown him, but believes the man he is set to replace is a tall order to follow.

"They [Force India] believe in me, they think we can achieve great things together," said Ocon.

"They want a strong driver to replace Nico, which is a tough task, but I will do my best to replace him the best way possible.

"Coming with not a lot of experience halfway through the season was very hard. Probably my progress was a good point, and I also tested with Force India back in 2015, and the test was great.

"I remember being P2, just behind the Mercedes, and it was a hard day – raining, drying, so I remember a great test, great memories, and the team welcomed me well back then."

Ocon also revealed that he had held close talks with Renault before committing to Force India, but remained mum on the reasons why they did not conclude positively.

"I can confirm that there had been talks with Renault – but I can't say why I didn't go there. And to be honest the only thing that matters for me is that I have a seat for next year.

"If I reflect on my career I am already ahead of my own schedule as I had expected to join F1 in 2017 in one way or the other. Now I am already here and have secured a competitive cockpit for next 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.