Ocon replaces Haryanto at Manor

Published on 11 August 2016 by Stefan Meens

Esteban Ocon will make his Formula 1 racing debut at the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix at Spa Francorchamps. The Frenchman will replace Rio Haryanto, after the Indonesian failed to fulfil his financial obligations.

The 19-year-old’s Grand Prix debut means he will be on the same grid again as Max Verstappen ever since their rookie campaign in European F3 in 2014. Despite Max winning the most races, Ocon beat the Dutchman to the title.

It is not the first time the reigning GP3 champion has driven a Formula 1 car. Like his new team mate Pascal Wehrlein, Ocon tested the Mercedes W07 earlier this year at Silverstone. Additionally, he participated in several Friday free practice sessions for Renault.

Ocon’s DTM drive at the Mercedes-AMG DTM Team will be taken by current European Formula 3 champion Felix Rosenqvist.