Ocon could take up dual reserve role in 2019

Esteban Ocon could become the reserve driver for two teams in 2019 as he is set to lose his race seat. Lance Stroll is all but confirmed at Force India next year, with the Silverstone squad confirming that it is waiting for Ocon to confirm his plans before announcing Stroll.

Ocon, who is a Mercedes junior driver, will be more integrated at the German outfit next season, where it is believed that he will take on the role as its official reserve driver. However, he could also hold the same position at his current team, Force India.

Ocon does have one small chance of staying on the grid next season with Williams, who is yet to confirm George Russell's teammate. However, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff says that it is unlikely that a deal will be worked out between the two.

"It’s not in our hands,” said Wolff, who claims Williams’ driver choice comes down to deputy team principal Claire Williams and chief technical officer Paddy Lowe. “I think we have pretty much have [Ocon] set for an off-season supporting us and Force India.

"Doing lots of simulator work, being a reserve driver for maybe us and Force India. And getting ready for the year after. If, miraculously, a door opens at Williams, he’s going to take it. But in Claire and Paddy’s hands and not in ours.”