Ocon pleased to match Magnussen in FP1
Reigning GP3 champion Esteban Ocon says he was pleased to match full-time Renault driver Kevin Magnussen in first practice for the German Grand Prix.
Ocon replaced Jolyon Palmer in FP1, the fourth time he has participated in first practice this season. He finished the session in 20th place, finishing only 0.048s behind Magnussen.
The Frenchman completed 30 laps of the Hockenheimring and ended the day 3.464s off pacesetter Nico Rosberg.
Despite a power steering issue, Ocon was pleased with his performance.
“We managed to go through all the test items we were supposed to do,” said Ocon. “I’m happy with my performance throughout the session.
“I was the same speed as Kevin which is very promising; I was quite pleased with that. We had a little issue with the power steering but didn’t lose much time because of that; I think it went well overall.”
Many expect Ocon to be given a seat at Renault in 2017, with continued strong performances on Friday, he is being given the best preparation ahead of a potential rookie season for the team next year.