Mercedes signs Esteban Ocon to DTM test and reserve role

The manufacturer will support the French driver, who begins his maiden GP3 campaign this weekend at Barcelona, and now has a contractual option on his future.

Ocon conducted DTM passenger rides for Mercedes during last weekend's Hockenheim season opener, where his GP3 outfit ART Grand Prix made its debut in the German series.

"I'm really proud to have the support of Mercedes-Benz this season and that the Mercedes AMG DTM team has trusted me with the important role of test and reserve driver," the 18-year-old said.

"I spent last weekend with the DTM team in Hockenheim and hope that I can play a valuable role this year.

"But my main focus is on the opening races of the GP3 series this weekend.

"I am proud to be racing with support from Mercedes-Benz and in a fantastic team like ART Grand Prix.

"I hope that I can compete for the title this year, starting with strong results in Barcelona."

Reigning champion Marco Wittmann is one of the most successful examples of moving from a reserve role to a race seat, doing so with BMW, while DTM racer Pascal Wehrlein was last year named as Mercedes F1's official reserve.

"Esteban is a mega-talented young guy and one of the stars of the future," Mercedes motorsport chief Toto Wolff said.

"I'm pleased we've found a good path to continue his relationship with Mercedes-Benz, because we have a strong tradition of supporting the best young drivers with a view to their long-term potential.

"We will be watching Esteban's progress with a lot of interest and I hope this year will be the first of many working together."