Esteban Ocon will leave Haas at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season, ending a disappointing stint with the American team. The news had been anticipated for some time following Ocon's underwhelming performances since joining in 2025.
Ocon arrived at Haas with an impressive resume: eight seasons of experience, four podiums, and a victory in Hungary. He was seen as a major coup for Haas, expected to lead the team alongside rookie Oliver Bearman. However, over 18 months together, Ocon scored only 45 points compared to Bearman's 61, and was consistently outperformed by the 21-year-old.
Attention now turns to who will partner Bearman in 2027. At least five names have emerged as strong candidates, each with their own merits and appeal to Haas.
Leonardo Fornaroli: McLaren's Promising Prospect
Leonardo Fornaroli is one of the clear favorites for the second Haas seat. The 21-year-old Italian is the 2025 Formula 2 champion and currently serves as McLaren's test driver. Though yet to secure a race seat, he has caught the eye of many, especially McLaren team boss Andrea Stella.
"It's a very deserved opportunity," praised Stella. "We have worked with Leonardo for some months now. We have appreciated massively his attitude as a person and as a driver. He is actually a very interesting character. He looks timid, but by far he is the most proactive driver in asking the engineers, he goes around with his notebook, takes several notes and as soon as he has an idea, he shares it."
Fornaroli also impressed in free practice sessions in Barcelona and Budapest, finishing fifth in Barcelona just half a second off Oscar Piastri. He is part of an exclusive club to have won both F3 and F2 titles in consecutive years. If Haas are looking for a young talent with huge potential, Fornaroli is a hard option to ignore.
Other Candidates: Experience and Speed
Apart from Fornaroli, several other names are in the frame. Valtteri Bottas, currently Mercedes reserve driver, could be an experienced option. Bottas has raced for Williams and Mercedes, and despite being on hiatus from racing, he is still hungry for competition. Haas might be attracted by his technical expertise in the new 2026 regulations.
Second is Mick Schumacher, who raced for Haas in 2021-2022. Though not always spectacular, Schumacher has speed and is now a Mercedes reserve driver. A return to Haas could be a compelling story, but he needs to convince that he has developed since his last stint.
Third, there is Theo Pourchaire, the 2023 F2 champion currently racing in IndyCar. The Frenchman has immense talent and might seek a way back to F1. Haas could be the right place for him to hone his skills.
Fourth, Robert Shwartzman, Ferrari reserve driver who also has F1 experience with several free practice sessions. He is fast and supported by Ferrari, which could be an advantage for Haas who use Ferrari engines.
Fifth, Felipe Drugovich, the 2022 F2 champion currently serving as Aston Martin reserve driver. Drugovich has shown speed in various tests and might be ready for a promotion to a race seat.
With these options, Haas have plenty to consider. Will they opt for a young driver like Fornaroli for the long term, or an experienced one for stability? One thing is clear: the second Haas seat is one of the most intriguing to be contested ahead of the 2027 season.
Baca Juga
Esteban Ocon akan meninggalkan Haas akhir 2026. Simak lima kandidat penggantinya, termasuk Leonardo Fornaroli, untuk mendampingi Oliver Bearman di F1 2027.
Haas resmi kehilangan Esteban Ocon akhir 2026. Simak 5 kandidat pengganti untuk mendampingi Oliver Bearman di F1 2027, termasuk Leonardo Fornaroli.
Flavio Briatore komentari persaingan Charles Leclerc dan Lewis Hamilton di Ferrari yang memanas. Simak pandangannya soal manajemen dua pembalap top.
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