Esteban Ocon has the same potential as Max Verstappen, according to Force India deputy team principal Bob Fernley.

Fernley also confirmed to Sky F1 that the Frenchman signed a two-year contract with the team when he replaced Nico Hulkenberg at the start of 2017.

Verstappen has lit up Formula 1 since entering the sport as a 17-year-old with Toro Rosso in 2015 and he became the youngest-ever winner of a grand prix last year with victory at the Spanish GP on his Red Bull debut.

In 2014, Ocon won the European Formula 3 championship ahead of Verstappen and Fernley believes he can go on to enjoy similar success in Formula 1.

"I absolutely do [believe he has the potential of Verstappen]. That's why we brought him on," Fernley told Sky F1.

"He's with us for sure for two years and hopefully a little longer.

Sky F1's Simon Lazenby is put through his paces in the gym by Force India driver Esteban Ocon to see exactly how fit you need to be to drive a 2017 F1 car Sky F1's Simon Lazenby is put through his paces in the gym by Force India driver Esteban Ocon to see exactly how fit you need to be to drive a 2017 F1 car

"We were very fortunate to be able to have a look at him early on in his career. At that time he dealt very well with the engineers, showed his promise on track and we were very optimistic that we could get him later.

"He's fitted in exceptionally well. It's always very difficult for a new driver to come in, especially when you've had consistency with somebody like Nico for so long.

"But Esteban has been an absolute delight, slotted straight in and it's like he's been with us forever."

Ocon has finished in the points in both of his races for Force India, crossing the line in 10th in China and Australia.

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