Esteban Ocon will depart Haas at the end of the 2026 Formula One campaign, after two years that produced limited success.
One‑Season Standings Highlight the Gap
Joining Haas in 2025 from Alpine, the 30‑year‑old scored 45 points in 2025 and 61 in 2026, trailing rookie Oliver Bearman, who has 71 points from the same races.
Haas Management on the Transition
Team principal Ayao Komatsu thanked Ocon for “his professionalism and commitment” and praised his role in shaping the new VF‑26, “tackling a major regulation change together” while Luo team “continues to grow as an organization.”
Driver’s Perspective on Car Consistency
Ocon, who noted that “inconsistencies of the Haas car were more a problem than Bearman,” acknowledged a point score in Baku but remained “13‑6” behind Bearman in qualifying. He reaffirmed his intent to maximise performance through the season’s remaining races.
Career Highlights and Future Options
With 203 Grand Prix starts, one victory (Hungary 2021) and four podiums—all with Alpine—Ocon left the team “with his head held high.” The Frenchman hinted that his Formula One career remains active, yet his next step is unannounced. Rumors point to Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli or current F2 leader Rafael Camara as possible candidates for Haas’s next driver.
Season‑End Standings Context
Ocon sits 16th in the 2026 drivers’ standings, three places behind Bearman. Haas holds seventh place in the constructors’ championship after 15 of 23 races.
Haas’s decision underscores a strategic pivot as the team aims to rebuild after a challenging two‑year stint and set the stage for a more competitive future.
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