Ocon has already countered 'big problem' at Renault

Esteban Ocon says he has already overcome "a big problem" of his Renault debut by taking part in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi.

Mercedes freed Ocon from his reserve duties early in order to take part in both days of the Pirelli test at the Yas Marina Circuit.

Ocon logged 205 laps in the test, only George Russell completed more as he took part in a day for Williams and Mercedes each.

The Frenchman has been on the sidelines of F1 in 2019, having seen a potential move to Renault blocked by Daniel Ricciardo's high-profile arrival from Red Bull, and then his seat at Racing Point filled by Lance Stroll.

And with pre-season testing cut from eight days to six days in 2020, Ocon says the chance to get familiar with Renault's team could be crucial in delivering strong performances early next year.

He said: "It's crucial and definitely it's going to help me massively, because you arrive to testing in February with an advantage, because you have your position [in the car] fixed, you have things that you verified on track, which it's great to have the chance for that.

"I didn't get much driving time this year, and to have even fewer days in February, it's a big problem.

"So to have these two days here it's basically a counter for the days we are lacking in February."

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Charles Leclerc shares health update ahead of Spanish Grand Prix after huge crash at Monza

• 8 minutes ago

F1 is facing an existential crisis which could change the sport - and it's Donald Trump's fault

• 1 hour ago

Red Bull F1 star officially a free agent as rumours swirl over paddock switch

• 2 hours ago

Lewis Hamilton 'feels betrayed by Vasseur' - Italian media react to Ferrari fallout

• 3 hours ago

Ferrari star pours cold water on big upgrade with 'no game changer' verdict

• Today 08:15

F1 News Today: Ferrari confirm Monza inquest as Lewis Hamilton puts his boss on the hotseat

• Today 07:15