Formula 3 has a long history as a proving ground for future stars of motor sport. The recent career move of Esteban Ocon demonstrates why the FIA Formula 3 European Championship is firmly established as a key step for young drivers on their way up the motor sport pyramid.

Ocon was signed by Manor Racing to race in the remaining nine rounds of the 2016 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. The 19-year-old will make his F1 race debut at the Belgian Grand Prix on August 28th, partnering Pascal Wehrlein.

Before being offered a seat in Formula 1, the Mercedes Junior was reserve driver for the Renault Sport F1 Team while also competing for Mercedes-AMG DTM – a seat that will be filled by another former F3 champion Felix Rosenqvist.

Ocon’s talent was already clearly evident when winning the 2014 FIA F3 European Championship title during his maiden season in Formula 3. That year he scored no fewer than nine wins and scored 12 other podiums, clinching the title with a round to spare. Now the Frenchman has an opportunity to show off his skills at the very highest level.

Ocon said: “I’m thrilled that I’ll be making my Grand Prix debut with Manor Racing later this month, and at Spa, of all circuits, which is the next best thing to my home race. I’m ready for this exciting step up, thanks to the experience I’ve gained as a Formula 1 Reserve Driver this season.” And added: “We’ll be ready to hit the ground running after the summer break. I can’t wait to get started!”

Manor’s Racing Director, Dave Ryan commented: “We are very pleased to welcome Esteban to Manor Racing for the remainder of the season. He is clearly one of the rising stars of F1.”