Ocon wants early Mercedes release

Esteban Ocon is hopeful that Mercedes will free him to join Renault for the post-season test with Renault as he looks to get up to speed with his 2020 employers.

The Frenchman was confirmed as Nico Hulkenberg's replacement in the summer, but has retained his reserve driver role with the Silver Arrows in the meantime.

Although he has not been invited to sensitive meetings, he remains a presence in driver briefings.

But, having spent 2019 on the sidelines, Ocon hopes Mercedes will allow him to familiarise himself with Renault at the Yas Marina Circuit, despite having tested for his current employers as recently as October.

Asked for confirmation of his Abu Dhabi plans, Ocon told Sky Sports: "I don't know, but hopefully as soon as possible.

"I hope I can do the test in Abu Dhabi, but the two teams will have to decide if that is possible. But of course that is what I would like."

Renault went through a similar situation last year with Daniel Ricciardo, who was forbidden from taking part in the Abu Dhabi test with the French constructor by Red Bull.

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