Ocon thanks fans after Haas exit leaves F1 future unclear

Esteban Ocon has thanked fans and colleagues for their messages following his early removal by Haas. The Frenchman was already due to leave the team at the end of the 2026 season, but was dropped sooner after a dispute with team principal Ayao Komatsu.

Tensions had grown over Ocon's struggles to match team-mate Oliver Bearman, and an argument with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre selection at the Mexico City Grand Prix added to the strain. Ocon acknowledged a difference in viewpoints but denied reports of a physical confrontation. Haas replaced him with Ryo Hirakawa for the Mexican race and confirmed he would not return this season.

Ocon, who claimed his maiden win at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, said his love for the sport remains as strong as ever. With no seat confirmed for 2027, his future in Formula 1 remains in serious doubt.