Ocon knows just how to deal with Max Verstappen

Force India's new recruit Esteban Ocon says that he has no inhibitions about racing Max Verstappen wheel to wheel, and getting past him!

Whether he will actually have the opportunity to measure himself directly against the Red Bull charger is a question for another day, but if it happens, Ocon says he knows exactly how to deal with 'Maximum Max', a man he battled with numerous times in F3.

"It's always been the same with Max," Ocon explained to French broadcaster Canal + Sport.

"In Formula 3, we would bang wheels all the time and there would be some brave overtaking. And if I didn't lift, he would just hit me.

"But I know how to deal with him. You move to one side and cross over and pass him on the other."

Sounds quite clever. We can't wait to see Ocon try and pull it off. We doubt an old hand like Max will fall for the ploy however.

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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.