The second seat at Haas for the 2027 season is officially vacant after Esteban Ocon confirmed he will leave at the end of the 2026 campaign. The decision ends a disappointing 18-month spell for the American outfit, and attention now turns to who will partner Oliver Bearman.
Ocon joined in 2025 with an impressive resume: eight seasons of experience, four podiums, and a victory in Hungary. Haas viewed him as a major coup, especially as he became their first grand prix-winning driver. Alongside rookie Bearman, he was expected to lead the team into the new regulations. But reality painted a different picture. Over 18 months, Ocon scored just 45 points, far behind Bearman's 61. The consistent performances of the now 21-year-old Bearman put Ocon's position under threat. Speculation mounted, and eventually the news broke.
Who will replace him? Leonardo Fornaroli immediately emerged as the leading candidate. The 21-year-old Italian is an F2 graduate who has yet to secure an F1 seat despite his title-winning pedigree. In 2026, he served as McLaren's test driver and impressed. His outings in free practice at Barcelona and Budapest drew praise, especially in Barcelona where he finished fifth, just half a second off Oscar Piastri. McLaren team boss Andrea Stella praised his work ethic. "He's a very interesting character. He looks timid, but he's by far the most proactive driver in asking the engineers. He goes around with his notebook, takes notes, and shares his ideas immediately," Stella said. Fornaroli also completed a two-day TPC programme with Haas at Jerez, signalling serious interest from the team.
Another intriguing candidate is Ferrari reserve driver Robert Shwartzman. Although he has never raced in F1, he has test driver experience and has competed in IndyCar. However, his chances may depend on Haas's relationship with Ferrari. Names like Theo Pourchaire, the 2023 F2 champion, could also be considered. Pourchaire currently races in IndyCar and has proven speed, but his consistency in Europe was questioned. Haas might seek a driver who can compete immediately rather than a long-term project.
Another option is giving a chance to a Ferrari junior like Dino Beganovic. The Swedish driver has shown promise in F2 and has the backing of the Ferrari academy. Haas, which uses Ferrari engines, has a direct pipeline to promote him. But is he ready? Similarly, names like Zane Maloney possess speed but lack consistency. Haas must weigh experience against potential.
Finally, there is the possibility of Haas recruiting a veteran like Valtteri Bottas. Bottas has extensive experience and is still hungry to compete. He could mentor Bearman while aiding car development. But would Haas be willing to pay a high salary for a driver who might only stay for a season or two? The decision will heavily depend on the team's long-term vision.
With new regulations in 2027, Haas stands at a crossroads. They could choose a young talent like Fornaroli who can grow with the team, or take a risk with an experienced driver. Whatever the choice, one thing is certain: the second Haas seat will be one of the most sought-after in the paddock. An official announcement is expected in the coming months, and fans are eagerly awaiting who will line up alongside Bearman on the 2027 grid.
Read Also
Flavio Briatore komentari persaingan Charles Leclerc dan Lewis Hamilton di Ferrari yang memanas. Simak pandangannya soal manajemen dua pembalap top.
Lewis Hamilton dituduh melemahkan Fred Vasseur dengan komentarnya soal John Elkann. Spekulasi kursi team principal Ferrari memanas jelang musim 2025.
Red Bull is open to further discussions with the FIA and rival power unit manufacturers over potential changes to the ADUO regulations in the new F1 engine era.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!