Esteban Ocon will officially part ways with Haas F1 Team at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season, bringing an end to a two-year stint that fell short of expectations. The announcement ends long-standing speculation in the paddock, following a challenging tenure since his arrival from Alpine for 2025.
A Disappointing Two-Year Spell
Ocon joined Haas with a reputation as a grand prix winner, having triumphed in Hungary in 2021 with Alpine. However, he struggled to find consistency with the VF-25 and VF-26. This season, he trails teammate Oliver Bearman in points (45 to 61) and holds a losing 13-6 qualifying record. Nevertheless, Ocon has repeatedly insisted that his struggles stem from the Haas car's inconsistency rather than his own driving, an issue that has affected him more than Bearman.
Official Statements and Team Appreciation
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu expressed gratitude for Ocon's contributions. "I'd like to thank Esteban for everything he's contributed to the team since joining us in 2025," said Komatsu. "His professionalism and commitment have proved valuable as we continue to grow as an organisation. Together this year we tackled the challenge of a major regulation change, where Esteban's driving experience and inputs were significant as we've worked hard to develop the VF-26 across the season. There's still plenty of racing ahead and our focus remains on working together to maximise every opportunity through to the final race of the year."
Ocon's Focus Ahead
On social media, Ocon stated he leaves with his head held high. "My time with Haas F1 Team will come to an end at the end of the 2026 season. I leave this project with my head held high and proud of my performances in what were not always the easiest of circumstances for various reasons and factors outside of my control. My immediate focus is the next race weekend. I will continue to work hard with the team, maximise every opportunity, and keep extracting every bit of performance from the car. There are still many races to go this season and, as always, I will give it my everything behind the wheel for myself and for my team. I am still motivated. I am still hungry. This is absolutely not the end of my Formula 1 career."
Uncertain Future
Ocon's next move is unknown, as is his replacement. Reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli and current F2 leader Rafael Camara are understood to be the candidates for the Haas seat. Currently, Ocon sits 16th in the drivers' standings, three places behind Bearman, with Haas seventh in the constructors' championship after 15 of 23 rounds. This decision marks a new chapter for Haas as they rebuild, and a turning point for Ocon as he seeks new opportunities on the F1 grid.
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