Ocon open to loan move away from Mercedes

Amid rumours of a move to Haas, Esteban Ocon has said “all options remain alive”, including a loan move away from Mercedes, as he eyes a quick return to the grid.

Ocon has been tipped to replace Romain Grosjean at the struggling American outfit, whilst there have also been whispers of a move to Renault with Nico Hulkenberg’s future in doubt.

The Frenchman, though, refused to comment on specific rumours but did make it very clear that he still wants to be part of the Mercedes set-up regardless of which team he could be racing for next season.

“Those are just rumours,” Ocon told French publication Auto Hebdo.

“Nothing is confirmed. As long as everyone is talking about it that means F1 hasn’t forgotten about us.

“All options remain alive, because Mercedes is open-minded even if it’s with another engine manufacturer.

“I can be loaned to another team, that’s not a problem. My main goal is to race for Mercedes with the works team.”

As the frustration builds up watching on from the sidelines in his reserve and development driver role for Mercedes, Ocon’s main focus remains being on the grid again next season.

“What interests me the most is a return to Formula 1 and to have that special feeling before the start of a Grand Prix,” Ocon added.

“It is difficult for me not to race this year. It’s something I miss a lot. I’ve worked all my life to get here.

“My objective is to find a race seat as soon as possible. My management is working hard on finding a solution, so let’s hope that something comes up.”

Follow us on Twitter @Planet_F1 and like our Facebook page.