Ocon not considering Formula E or IndyCar for 2019

Esteban Ocon has ruled out a switch to either Formula E or IndyCar for 2019, stressing his “only target” is Formula 1.

Mercedes junior Ocon is facing the bleak prospect of a year on the F1 sidelines with his current team Force India set to sign Lance Stroll alongside Sergio Perez for 2019, following the Silverstone based squad’s takeover by a consortium led by Lawrence Stroll.

After possible deals with Renault and McLaren fell through over the summer, Ocon’s last realistic hopes of remaining on the F1 grid next season comes in the shape of Williams, which is in talks with the Frenchman as it continues to evaluate its 2019 driver line-up.

Ocon insisted he is “not interested” in moving to America to pursue a race programme in IndyCar, adding his “only focus” remains on landing an F1 seat.

“I think it [IndyCar] is a great series but the only thing I look at is Formula 1,” he said.

“It’s my only target - my only target is to be world champion one day. There is nothing else that counts really.”

When asked if he would consider Formula E, he replied: “I don’t think so, no. We never know what can happen in the future, but I’ve been in that situation of waiting, but I was in a different situation.

“I didn’t try Formula 1 before. I didn’t race, I didn’t drive and do results or be prepared. When you are in those kind of transitions, you try to get as much experience before you go to F1.

“DTM was very, very useful for me, and prepared me very well for F1. I feel like I’m ready now, and I don’t need those bigger experiences. I think I have enough experience now.”

Force India boss Otmar Szafnauer said the team might yet provide Ocon with a reserve and simulator role for 2019, while the same position could also be offered by Mercedes.

Ocon conceded Mercedes has not given him any assurances over a full-time return in 2020 but said following the path of Pascal Wehrlein – who recently severed ties with the Mercedes' young driver programme – is not an option for him.

“Nothing is sure in life but I will work harder than ever. If I’m sitting away from a seat, I will push and break the balls of everyone to be back.

“I think my only good thing at the moment is that I have a good support with Mercedes.

“They will never let me go and they will always push for me to find a solution. At the moment, that’s the only good thing I have. There’s nothing else.”