Wolff pleads for Ocon to be put on the grid

Looking ahead to the future, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has pleaded with his F1 colleagues to give development driver Esteban Ocon a spot on the starting grid.

The youngster, currently on loan to Renault as a reserve driver from Mercedes, has been impressive for the French manufacturer and was lauded by Wolff for putting in impressive lap times during practices.

Due to his potential, the Austrian urged Renault, and all other teams interested, to give him an opportunity on the starting grid.

"Esteban has an impeccable personality — he really is a nice and intelligent young man. And his performance in the car is extraordinary," the 44-year-old said told French broadcaster Canal Plus

"He did two sensational test days with us at Silverstone and we saw that he did the same time as Magnussen in Friday free practice, so he is someone who has a big future.

"I hope that my colleagues realise all of this, otherwise it will be us who will be taking him back!"

If a drive at Renault is not expected soon, the likes of Manor have been brought up as a suggestion if the British team decides to replace Rio Haryanto.