Esteban Ocon is not far from taking to the circuit in a Renault for the first time, and the Frenchman has revealed why he is not allowed in the Mercedes garage in Abu Dhabi.
Earlier this year it was confirmed Ocon would return to the pinnacle of motorsport, but not with Mercedes as many expected, rather with Renault. He'll partner Daniel Ricciardo in 2020 as Nico Hulkenberg departs the sport having failed to find another team.
The former-Force India driver was being gradually phased out of Mercedes meetings and is set to drive in the post-season test for his new team. The man himself has revealed that he isn't allowed in the Mercedes garage this weekend.
“Technically no, I do not have that right," said when asked by Canal Plus regarding Renault's development for next year.
“But we are discussing, and I have been able to fit my seat, prepare myself a little and go in the simulator. That’s why I do not have the right to be in the (Mercedes) garage this weekend.
“We are preparing to test next week and I’m lucky to have two days, which is rare. Even Daniel (Ricciardo) did not have this chance last year, so it’s going to be a good preparation for next season."