Mercedes will support the burgeoning career of reigning F3 champion Esteban Ocon as he embarks on his first season in GP3 this year.
Ocon was one of the star performers in the junior categories last year, beating Max Verstappen among others to the F3 European championship. His new deal will see him become an official test and reserve driver for the Mercedes DTM team and includes a contractual option that could see him become a fully-fledged Mercedes-Benz driver in the future.
Ocon tested an F1 car for the first time last year at the post-season Abu Dhabi test with Lotus and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff sees a bright future for 18 year old.
"Esteban is a mega-talented young guy and one of the stars of the future," team boss Toto Wolff said. "I'm pleased we've found a good path to continue his relationship with Mercedes-Benz, because we have a strong tradition of supporting the best young drivers with a view to their long-term potential. We will be watching Esteban's progress with a lot of interest and I hope this year will be the first of many working together."
Ocon added: "I'm really proud to have the support of Mercedes-Benz this season and that the Mercedes AMG DTM team has trusted me with the important role of test and reserve driver. I spent last weekend with the DTM team in Hockenheim and hope that I can play a valuable role this year.
"But my main focus is on the opening races of the GP3 Series this weekend. I am proud to be racing with support from Mercedes-Benz and in a fantastic team like ART Grand Prix. I hope that I can compete for the title this year, starting with strong results in Barcelona."