Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu has finally addressed the team's decision to part ways with Esteban Ocon at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Speaking to media in Sepang, Komatsu hinted that the real reason goes beyond on-track performance.
Ocon joined Haas in 2025 and showed flashes of speed, but his relationship with the team soured after a publicised outburst from Komatsu in Montreal. Despite that, Komatsu insisted the decision was made after a comprehensive evaluation.
“I guess it depends what he means by performance. Performance just encompasses everything, right?” Komatsu told media, including Motorsport Week. “When everything is right, as you can see in previous races, he's one of the fastest. He's got great speed, great talent, and can execute at a very high level. So when things fall into place, it's amazing.”
Komatsu also praised Ocon's recent form. “Since Budapest, he's done a very good job. Zandvoort, the same. At Monza, our car on Esteban's side wasn't working well, but he made the best of it. Then Madrid and Baku, he performed. I'm really looking forward to finishing the season strongly with him because we know what he's capable of.”
When pressed on whether performances before Hungary influenced the decision, Komatsu remained coy. “I don't want to go into details, because certain things we discuss with drivers remain private. But even looking at the overall picture, for me it was time to make a change. But in terms of his ultimate speed, there's no doubt.”
Reflecting on Ocon's tenure, Komatsu expressed no regrets. “His work ethic was very, very good. He was our first-ever Grand Prix winner, and that experience was valuable. We are grateful for his contribution.”
Ocon's seat is expected to be filled by Formula 2 title leader Rafael Camara, a Ferrari junior. Haas is also expected to retain Ollie Bearman for 2027, forming a young and promising lineup. This decision signals a new direction for the Banbury-based team.
Baca Juga
George Russell berharap upgrade besar Mercedes di GP Bahrain Malaysia memperkuat kebangkitannya setelah menang di Azerbaijan. Simak analisis lengkapnya.
Esteban Ocon menegaskan tetap fokus di Formula 1 meski akan meninggalkan Haas. Pebalap Prancis itu yakin masih layak bersaing di ajang balap paling bergengsi.
Kimi Antonelli ubah strategi di GP Azerbaijan, memilih berkendara di bawah limit demi finis kelima dan selamatkan musimnya. Simak kisah lengkapnya.
Lanjutkan dengan Google
Diskusi & Komentar (0)
Mari Bergabung dalam Diskusi!
Masuk dengan mudah untuk mulai memberikan komentar, membalas, dan berinteraksi dengan pembaca lainnya.
Komentar Terbaru
Belum ada komentar. Jadilah yang pertama!