Formula 1 team Haas will part ways with Esteban Ocon at the end of the 2026 season, but team principal Ayao Komatsu has stopped short of explaining exactly why the American outfit decided to end its partnership with the French driver. Ocon, meanwhile, has suggested that disagreements may have played a role in the decision.
Haas has confirmed that Ocon will leave the team after the current Formula 1 season, bringing their two-year partnership to an end. However, Komatsu has made clear that the decision was not simply based on the 30-year-old’s outright speed.
“To be honest, I don’t want to go into detail. Because certain things we’ve discussed with the drivers simply remain private, you know?” Komatsu was quoted by givemesport during the Formula 1 weekend in Malaysia.
The Haas team principal said it was ultimately “the overall picture” that convinced the team to make a change.
Komatsu rules out simple lack of speed
Komatsu’s comments suggest that Ocon’s pace was not the central issue behind the decision.
There is “no doubt” about Ocon’s “absolute speed” and what he can deliver when everything comes together, according to the Haas boss. However, Komatsu indicated that performance in Formula 1 involves considerably more than outright qualifying or race pace.
“I suppose it depends on what he means by performance. Performance encompasses pretty much everything, doesn’t it?” Komatsu said.
He nevertheless acknowledged Ocon’s speed when conditions are right.
“So if everything is right – as you can see from the past races – he’s clearly one of the fastest.”
The comments provide some context to Ocon’s departure, while leaving the specific factors behind the decision undisclosed.
Haas praised Ocon’s contribution
Haas’ initial announcement about the split was similarly restrained.
“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, with Esteban’s driving experience and suggestions being of great importance as we worked hard on the development of the VF-26 throughout the season,” the statement read.
“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 wording underlined Ocon’s contribution to the development of Haas’ 2026 car, while avoiding any explanation for why the partnership will not continue beyond the season.
Ocon points to factors beyond his control
Ocon joined Haas for the 2025 season after four years with Alpine. He had previously made his Formula 1 debut with Manor in 2016.
His first campaign with Haas produced 38 points, but his results have been considerably weaker in 2026. Ocon has collected only seven points so far this season.
Despite that record, Ocon has insisted that he can leave the project with his head held high.
“I leave this project with my head held high and am proud of my achievements – under circumstances that were not always easy for various reasons and due to factors beyond my control,” Ocon said.
The Frenchman has not yet confirmed what he intends to do after leaving Haas.
Camara linked with Haas seat
Ocon’s future has also become a major talking point as Haas prepares for its next driver line-up.
Ferrari junior Rafael Camara is considered a leading candidate to replace the Frenchman. The 21-year-old Brazilian is currently leading the Formula 2 standings and has developed through Ferrari’s junior programme.
The connection is particularly relevant because Ferrari is Haas’ technical partner.
Oliver Bearman, meanwhile, currently occupies the team’s other race seat. The 21-year-old Briton joined Haas as a full-time Formula 1 driver for the 2025 season.
For Ocon, the immediate priority will be finishing his Haas career strongly. Komatsu’s latest comments indicate that the reasons for the split are more complicated than a simple judgement on the Frenchman’s outright Formula 1 speed.
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