Esteban Ocon will return to the Formula 1 grid in 2020 after signing a multi-year deal with Renault.
Ex-Manor and Force India racer Ocon was left without a seat for 2019 after losing his seat at the Silverstone-based team, having missed out on openings at Renault and McLaren.
But 12 months on from passing on Ocon’s services Renault has now recruited the French youngster to join Daniel Ricciardo.
Long-term Mercedes protégé Ocon has spent 2019 as the manufacturer’s reserve driver and was in contention to step up to a race drive for 2020.
But Mercedes has opted for stability, with Valtteri Bottas remaining alongside Lewis Hamilton, clearing the path for Ocon to join Renault.
Ocon will take the place of Nico Hulkenberg, ending the 32-year-old’s three-season spell at Renault.
Hulkenberg spearheaded Renault’s seasons in 2017 and 2018 but this year has been largely out-performed by new team-mate Ricciardo.
The German's best option of remaining on the grid is understood to be at Haas, which is evaluating its 2020 driver line-up in the wake of a difficult year for Formula 1’s newest team.
"First and foremost, I am very proud to become a Renault driver," said Ocon.
"I have grown up at Enstone, starting with Lotus in 2010 and then with Renault. I am very attached to this team and everyone who works there; they are the ones who opened the doors of top-level motorsport for me.
"Secondly, I am pleased that a team with big ambitions has entrusted me with the opportunity to once again demonstrate my skills at the highest level of F1.
"It is a responsibility I take very seriously. The confidence they have in me to help the progression of the team is a very positive pressure and I look forward to giving the best of myself."
