Stroll admits replacing Ocon "not fair"

Lance Stroll has admitted that he understands why Estaban Ocon thinks it's not entirely fair why the Canadian is replacing him at Force India, as Stroll's father bought the team, prompting his son to take over the Frenchman's seat at the team.

French TV-station Canal Plus overheard a conversation between Esteban Ocon and Sebastian Vettel at Spa Francorchamps in which Ocon said he'll be losing his seat because one driver "bought the team" and the other "brings the money". This could prove to be true, as Stroll has reportedly already fitted his seat at Force India and will replace Ocon after the Italian Grand Prix this weekend.

Stroll does realize that this doesn't look good from his side of things.

"I'm not arguing that point, but my results and what I've done in the past should be acknowledged a little bit more," the Canadian told the Telegraph.

"I'm not disagreeing that the system isn't entirely fair all the time.

"But I deserve more than just a mention of the money that's behind me."

The 19-year-old argues that his father's money could prove to be a good thing, as the financial injection could mean the team prospers more than it already has.

"Potentially, my father buying this team can make it a much better team, much more competitive.

"It's not, in my eyes, a big negative.

"From Esteban's point of view, it's triggered towards me, because my father's involved in Force India.

"Drivers from certain backgrounds will have their view on how things should be.

"Drivers with financial backing will think otherwise."

Again, Stroll argues that he's still a very good driver, financial backing or not. He's not just a sack of cash, like the media have often portrayed him.

"If he (Lawrence) takes me to Force India, that's his choice, and I understand that for Esteban, that might not be great or fair.

"But I think that I deserve to be recognised more for the results I've achieved. I wanted to get that off my chest."