Ramirez: Very important that Perez beats Ocon

When asked ahead of the Australian Grand Prix weekend how significant it is for Perez to beat Ocon this year, Ramirez replied, "It's very important."

"Esteban is getting better and he's pushing. Unfortunately, Checo might not have been as focused as he should have been last year. Instead of marrying and having a child he should dedicate himself to F1."

"Formula 1 is something you should have for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You should think about it 24 hours a day because if you do not do that, the one next to you will be doing it."

Perez versus Ocon was one of the tastier sideshows of the 2017 season. The pair brawled on track until the team put an end to the feud, but it was clear: in Ocon, Perez had himself a hardy rival who was going to be a test of his skills and temperament.

Ramirez pointed out, "Esteban has forced Sergio to change and now because of this he is more of a man. Sergio used to be a boy and he made many mistakes because he was young."

"He's changing now, he's a father and he's got more responsibilities. We hope this helps him in his career. I'd like to see that because unfortunately, we're a long way from having another Mexican driver in Formula 1. We have him so we must support him," declared Ramirez.

Ferrari are likely to be looking for a replacement for Kimi Raikkonen, perhaps even starting next year, and Perez may have an outside shot at the seat. But for any Maranello dream to become a reality, the Mexican needs to ensure that Mercedes-backed Ocon does not have one up on him in what could be a career-defining season.

Whatever the case the stage is already set for a second season of the intriguing Perez vs Ocon soap opera, in 21 episodes.