It’s official! Esteban Ocon is leaving Haas at the end of 2026; his replacement has not yet been confirmed

He had already been actively looking for a job in Baku, and now he is officially without a job for 2027: Esteban Ocon is leaving the US team Haas at the end of the year. The team announced this on Wednesday ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, which is being held in Malaysia as a one-off.

In the official statement, Haas confirmed what had already been hinted at: Haas and Ocon will be going their separate ways next season. Last week in Baku, Ocon had actively promoted himself on the market, stating that he had no contract for 2027 and was a “free agent”. Team principal Ayao Komatsu had said at the time that no decision had been made. That has now changed. Ocon’s contract expires at the end of the season – and will not be renewed.

Team principal Komatsu thanks Ocon

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu is quoted as follows in the official announcement: “I would like to thank Esteban for everything he has contributed since joining the team in 2025. His professionalism and dedication have proved invaluable as we continue to grow as an organisation. Together, we have risen to the challenge of a comprehensive rules change this year, with Esteban’s driving experience and input proving invaluable as we have worked hard on the development of the VF-26 throughout the season. There are still many races ahead of us, and our focus remains on making the most of every opportunity together right up to the final race of the year.” Ocon himself is not quoted in the statement.

It is not yet clear who will succeed Ocon at Haas. Formula 2 driver Rafael Camara is considered the favourite for the seat. However, Haas emphasised that no further news on the driver line-up is expected in the near future. So things remain a little up in the air. It is also unclear where Ocon will end up. There had recently been rumours of a move into endurance racing.

This is already the second major driver-related announcement to be confirmed ahead of the Sepang race. On Tuesday, Aston Martin had already announced the extension of Fernando Alonso’s contract for a further year and, in the process, also confirmed Lance Stroll for 2027.

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