Esteban Ocon has hit out at Haas again over the decision to drop him at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season, insisting that his impending departure is not performance-related. The Frenchman remains determined to secure a seat on the grid in 2027, despite most available opportunities already appearing to be taken.
Ocon is preparing to leave Haas after the American team opted to promote Rafael Câmara for next season. While the Frenchman accepts that the Brazilian has earned his opportunity through his performances in the junior categories, he remains adamant that he has done nothing to warrant losing his own place in Formula 1.
Ocon questions Haas’ decision to drop him
Ocon acknowledged Câmara’s ability, describing the young driver’s performances in the junior series as evidence that he is “very good”. However, he drew a clear distinction between welcoming his successor’s promotion and accepting his own departure from the sport.
“But at the same time, I don’t deserve to be out of Formula 1. It’s that simple,” Ocon said ahead of the United States Grand Prix.
The 30-year-old has not publicly explained the specific circumstances behind Haas’ decision, but he was unequivocal in rejecting the suggestion that his performances justified the move.
“There are many circumstances why I won’t be here [at Haas] next year, but they are not performance-related,” he claimed.
Ocon added that losing his seat under these circumstances was “something I don’t deserve”, making clear that he remains unhappy with the team’s decision as his time at Haas approaches its conclusion.
Ocon targeting a return to the F1 grid in 2027
Despite his frustration, Ocon has not given up on his Formula 1 career. The Frenchman confirmed that he is actively exploring potential opportunities for next season, with his immediate priority being to finish the current campaign strongly.
“Of course, I’m working on a solution for next year,” he said.
Strong performances in the remaining races could help Ocon strengthen his position in discussions with other teams. However, the timing of his departure makes securing another full-time seat a considerable challenge.
Most of the available places for the 2027 season are already expected to be filled, leaving limited opportunities for an experienced driver seeking to remain on the grid.
Ocon’s experience could still make him an attractive option if a vacancy emerges, particularly at a team looking for proven race-winning experience and technical feedback. He won the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix and has previously competed for Force India, Renault, Alpine and Haas.
Could Cadillac offer Ocon an F1 lifeline?
One possible avenue could be Cadillac, although no confirmed vacancy has emerged at the American outfit.
Questions remain over the team’s longer-term driver line-up, with speculation surrounding the futures of Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas. Either driver potentially leaving would create an opening for an experienced replacement, but there is currently no confirmation that Cadillac intends to make a change.
Ocon could come under consideration if the opportunity arises, given his experience across several Formula 1 teams. However, any suggestion that he is close to securing a Cadillac seat remains speculative, officially.
However, the speculation linking Ocon with Cadillac may have more substance than a straightforward paddock rumour. Sources close to the US-based team have indicated to TJ13 that the possibility is worth taking seriously, although no agreement has been confirmed and Cadillac’s current driver situation remains unresolved.
For now, the Frenchman must concentrate on the remainder of the 2026 season while exploring his options behind the scenes.
Ocon believes his performances have not justified his removal, but whether another team agrees strongly enough to offer him a contract will determine whether he can remain on the Formula 1 grid in 2027.
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