Haas have confirmed that Esteban Ocon will not compete for the team again in the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Formula 2 champion Rafael Camara is set to replace him and make his debut at the 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix on the weekend of November 6-8.
The Frenchman was dropped midway through last weekend’s Mexico GP, with Haas not providing a reason.
Ryo Hirakawa debuted as Ocon’s replacement from Saturday onwards and finished an impressive 10th in Sunday’s race, but will be competing in the World Endurance Championship this weekend in Italy.
Friday’s running marked Ocon’s last appearance in F1 until further notice, with Haas having previously confirmed in October that they would not proceed with him into the 2027 F1 season.
Camara was then announced as his replacement, joining Oliver Bearman at the American outfit.
Ocon responds to rumours surrounding Haas exit
When Ocon was dropped for the Mexico GP, rumours circulated in the media suggesting that there had been violent misconduct.
Ocon subsequently took to social media to release a statement, saying that while there was “a difference in viewpoints” with the involved parties, he rejected “any reports or allegations suggesting any form of physical violence” was used in resolving the matter.
Komatsu explains decision
However, with Komatsu and Haas yet to communicate further on the matter, the Japanese boss has now explained the decision to drop Ocon for the rest of the season:
“Such decisions are never made lightly, as was the case in Mexico City – but then, as now, we feel this is firmly in the best interest of the team moving forward.
“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.
“Looking ahead, we’ve chosen Rafael Camara to drive alongside Ollie Bearman at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.”
Haas are yet to confirm who will drive in the remaining Grands Prix in Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
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Michael Davey