Haas has confirmed that Esteban Ocon will not compete for the team for the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 season, following his removal from the lineup at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Rafael Camara, a Brazilian rookie signed by Haas for 2027, is set to take Ocon’s place at this weekend’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Ocon was stood down on Saturday morning in Mexico City and replaced by the team’s Japanese reserve driver, Ryo Hirakawa. The decision followed a disagreement with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre choice during Friday’s second practice. Haas has not explained the circumstances behind its decision to drop him.
Team principal Ayao Komatsu said Haas had told Ocon he would not return to a race seat this season. He said the decision was made in the team’s interests and described the discussions between Ocon and the team as an internal matter.
Ocon later acknowledged that a difference of views had led to a discussion, while rejecting reports or allegations that physical violence had been used. Those comments followed a report by French newspaper L’Equipe that a meeting between Ocon and Komatsu had ended abruptly and may have become physical.
Haas has not announced who will drive Ocon’s car in the remaining races after Sao Paulo. Ocon has made 198 Grand Prix starts since his 2016 debut and has one victory. He is seeking a reserve role, with the report noting that Racing Bulls and Cadillac are not expected to pursue him for a 2027 race seat.
Sources: BBC Sport.