Source: Official Team Post via X
Why Haas is Parting Ways with Esteban Ocon and What's Next for Him
Haas has decided not to renew Esteban Ocon's contract, leaving him without a seat for the 2027 F1 season. With most teams finalizing their line-ups, Ocon faces a challenging search for an opportunity to remain in the sport.
It's official: Esteban Ocon will not be part of the Haas team beyond this season, leaving his 2027 Formula 1 prospects in doubt. Unless a surprise opportunity emerges, Ocon might find himself watching from the sidelines next year.
Why is Haas moving on?
When Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu brought Esteban Ocon on board for 2025, it marked a milestone for the team—Ocon was their first Grand Prix winner. Komatsu, who first worked with Ocon back in 2012 at Lotus, believed the Frenchman could solidify Haas' position in the midfield and secure consistent points.
While Ocon did contribute to the points tally, he ended the season trailing behind rookie teammate Ollie Bearman. This shortfall led Komatsu to express that the team had "expected more" from Ocon in 2025. As Bearman shone early in the following season with strong finishes in Australia and China, Ocon struggled to find his rhythm. By the time Ocon hit his stride, Haas had slipped in competitiveness, making points harder to come by.
Faced with Ocon's underperformance, Haas began exploring alternatives. They conducted multiple Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) sessions, assessing talents like FIA Formula 2 Champion Leo Fornaroli, Ferrari junior Rafael Camara, and reserves Ryo Hirakawa and Jack Doohan. Although Komatsu hasn't settled on a replacement, he has options and is keen on a fresh start.
Before the Baku weekend, Komatsu had a candid conversation with Ocon, informing him of the decision to part ways. Despite Ocon's efforts, including an eighth-place finish in Baku, the team is ready to move on.
What are Ocon's options?
Ocon is determined to continue in Formula 1 and isn't entertaining options outside the sport, a sentiment he echoed on social media. However, with most teams having finalized their 2027 line-ups, finding a race seat will be challenging.
Aston Martin was a potential landing spot, but Fernando Alonso's decision to stay put has closed that door. As a result, a reserve role seems the most likely outcome for Ocon. Given his history with Mercedes, a return in a supporting capacity would be a logical move.
Ocon has navigated similar waters before; he spent 2019 as Mercedes' reserve after missing out on a Renault seat. His perseverance paid off, as he returned to full-time racing in 2020. While not ideal, Ocon's past success in bouncing back provides a glimmer of hope. Both Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez have shown that a year out doesn't spell the end of an F1 career.
What's next for Haas?
As for Haas, their plans for 2027 remain under wraps, but Ollie Bearman is expected to stay for a third season. Bearman's progress and impressive performances have convinced the team that they can afford to take another young driver on board.
F2 champion and McLaren reserve Leo Fornaroli was initially a strong candidate, but discussions with Ferrari have positioned their junior, Rafael Camara, as the frontrunner. Camara's strong F2 season and recent championship lead in Baku have impressed Ferrari, who are eager to place him at Haas. His financial backing and potential support from Ferrari make him an appealing option for the team operating on a tight budget.
In the ever-competitive world of F1, Haas is looking to blend talent with financial pragmatism, and Camara seems to fit the bill perfectly.