Haas has announced that Esteban Ocon will not race for the team for the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 season. The team stated that Ocon will "no longer compete on its behalf in the 2026 world championship." This decision follows an incident during practice for the Mexico City Grand Prix, after which Ocon was replaced by Brazilian rookie Rafael Camara for that weekend's race.
Team principal Ayao Komatsu said in a statement Tuesday that the decision to remove Ocon was not made lightly and is in the team's best interest moving forward. Komatsu added that "the conversations that ultimately unfolded between the team and Esteban remain an internal matter, and we will continue to respect the private nature of closed-door situations."
Ocon, who has competed in 198 Grands Prix since his debut in 2016 and has one career victory, was reportedly involved in a dispute with race engineer Laura Mueller regarding tire choice during second practice in Mexico. Following his removal from the car, Ocon released a statement asserting he "categorically rejected any reports or allegations suggesting that any form of physical violence was used to resolve any differences of any nature," while admitting that "a difference in viewpoints led to a discussion with the parties involved."
Haas has not yet disclosed who will drive Ocon's car for the races following the upcoming Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Ocon, who is currently without a confirmed seat for the 2027 season, is reportedly seeking a reserve driver role to remain involved in Formula 1.