Komatsu stands by Ocon decision at Haas

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has said he stands by the decision to drop Esteban Ocon, describing himself as "comfortable" with it, although he has not explained the reasons in detail. Haas announced after the Mexico City Grand Prix that Ocon would not return to a race seat this season, following a heated exchange with his race engineer Laura Mueller during practice.

Komatsu said he had to make the call purely on professionalism and the best interests of the team. He told the team on Saturday morning in Mexico that Ocon would not drive again, and reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa took over the car. Komatsu said he could not give the wider team details at the time.

He said the team had responded well to the change, adding that it had deserved the point it scored.