Esteban Ocon will leave Haas at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season, with the team confirming that his contract will not be extended into 2027. The Frenchman’s next destination remains unknown, while Formula 2 driver Rafael Camara is emerging as a leading contender to replace him.
Haas confirmed the decision on Wednesday ahead of the upcoming race in Sepang, ending weeks of uncertainty surrounding Ocon’s future.
The announcement follows Ocon’s comments in Baku last week, where he made clear that he did not have a contract for 2027 and was already considering his options. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu said at the time that no decision had yet been made.
That decision has now been taken.
Ocon and Haas will part ways after 2026
Ocon joined Haas for the 2025 season and has remained an important part of the team’s development programme during a period of significant technical change in Formula 1.
With the 2026 regulations introducing a comprehensive new set of technical rules, Ocon’s experience has been particularly valuable to Haas as the team worked to develop its VF-26.
However, the relationship will come to an end after the final race of the season. Haas confirmed that Ocon’s current contract expires at the end of 2026 and that the agreement will not be renewed.
Ocon was not quoted in the team’s announcement, leaving his immediate plans for 2027 open.
Komatsu pays tribute to Ocon’s contribution
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu thanked Ocon for his contribution to the team and highlighted the Frenchman’s role in developing the 2026 car.
“I would like to thank Esteban for everything he has contributed since joining the team in 2025. His professionalism and commitment have proven invaluable as we continue to grow as an organization. Together, we have faced the challenge of a comprehensive rule change this year, and Esteban’s driving experience and input have been crucial as we have worked hard on the development of the VF-26 throughout the season. There are still many races ahead, and our focus remains on making the most of every opportunity together until the final race of the year.”
The comments indicate that Haas remains focused on finishing the current campaign strongly despite the decision over its 2027 driver lineup.
Rafael Camara emerges as Haas favourite
Haas has not yet confirmed Ocon’s replacement, although Rafael Camara is considered one of the leading candidates for the vacant seat.
The Formula 2 driver has been linked with the opportunity as Haas assesses its options for next season. However, the team has stressed that there is no immediate announcement expected regarding its 2027 lineup.
That leaves the driver market open for now, with Haas yet to formally commit to Ocon’s successor.
For Ocon, the situation is equally uncertain. The Frenchman will now enter the final races of 2026 knowing that he needs to secure another opportunity if he is to remain on the Formula 1 grid next season.
Recent speculation has also linked Ocon with a potential move into endurance racing, although no future programme has been confirmed.
Second major 2027 driver decision in two days
Ocon’s departure is the second significant piece of 2027 driver-market news to be confirmed ahead of the Sepang race.
Aston Martin announced on Tuesday that Fernando Alonso would remain with the team for another season. The announcement also confirmed Lance Stroll as Aston Martin’s second driver for 2027.
With Haas now confirming that Ocon will leave, another seat is officially entering the 2027 driver market.
The biggest question for Haas is who will take it.
For Ocon, meanwhile, the focus shifts towards finding his next opportunity as his time with the American team enters its final chapter.
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The Judge, a nom de plume of an experienced F1 journalist and site founder with long-standing sources across the paddock. With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
