Esteban Ocon to Part Ways with Haas After 2026 Season

Esteban Ocon has announced his impending departure from Haas at the conclusion of the 2026 Formula 1 season, putting an end to ongoing speculation about his future in the sport. Ocon joined Haas in 2025 after a stint with Alpine, partnering with Ferrari-backed rookie Ollie Bearman. Over his tenure, Ocon has managed to score points in 12 of the 39 Grands Prix, with his best finish being fifth place in China last year.

In a social media post on Wednesday, Ocon confirmed his exit, stating, "My time with Haas F1 Team will come to an end at the end of the 2026 season." He expressed pride in his performances despite the challenges faced, emphasizing his commitment to maximizing the remaining races this season. "I am still motivated. I am still hungry. This is absolutely not the end of my Formula 1 career," Ocon added, leaving the door open for future opportunities.

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu acknowledged Ocon's contributions, highlighting his professionalism and valuable input during a season of significant regulatory changes. "Together this year we tackled the challenge of a major regulation change, where Esteban’s driving experience and inputs were significant," Komatsu noted. Although Haas has not announced a replacement, Ferrari junior and FIA Formula 2 leader Rafael Camara is a strong contender for the seat, with competition from McLaren reserve driver Leo Fornaroli and Haas reserves Jack Doohan and Ryo Hirakawa.

As the season continues, Ocon remains focused on delivering strong performances for Haas. The team, meanwhile, is looking to make the most of the remaining races, with an eye on the future and potential new talent on the horizon.