Esteban Ocon to Leave Haas After the 2026 F1 Season
Esteban Ocon has confirmed that he will leave Haas at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season, ending weeks of speculation about the French driver’s future. Ocon announced the decision on social media on Wednesday ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, although he has not revealed what he plans to do next.
Ocon joined Haas from Alpine for the 2025 season, forming a driver partnership with Ferrari-backed rookie Ollie Bearman. He has recorded 12 points finishes in 39 Grands Prix with Haas so far, with his best result being fifth at the Chinese Grand Prix last year, his second race for the team.
Announcing his departure, Ocon said: “My time with Haas F1 Team will come to an end at the end of the 2026 season,” read a statement posted by Ocon.
He added: “I leave this project with my head held high and proud of my performances in what were not always the easiest of circumstances for various reasons and factors outside of my control.
“My immediate focus is the next race weekend. I will continue to work hard with the team, maximise every opportunity, and keep extracting every bit of performance from the car.
“There are still many races to go this season and, as always, I will give it my everything behind the wheel for myself and for my team.”
Ocon concluded his message by making clear that he intends to remain in Formula 1: “I am still motivated. I am still hungry. This is absolutely not the end of my Formula 1 career.”
Haas Thanks Ocon as Driver Plans Remain Unconfirmed
Haas issued its own statement following Ocon’s announcement, including comments from Team Principal Ayao Komatsu. The team also said it would not share further driver-related news “at this time”.
Komatsu said: “I’d like to thank Esteban for everything he’s contributed to the team since joining us in 2025,” said Komatsu. “His professionalism and commitment have proved valuable as we continue to grow as an organisation.
“Together this year we tackled the challenge of a major regulation change, where Esteban’s driving experience and inputs were significant as we’ve worked hard to develop the VF-26 across the season.
“There’s still plenty of racing ahead, and our focus remains on working together to maximise every opportunity through to the final race of the year.”
Rafael Camara Leads Haas Replacement Contenders
Ferrari junior Rafael Camara is currently regarded as the favourite to take Ocon’s Haas seat. Camara is also the leader of the FIA Formula 2 championship.
Camara faces competition from McLaren reserve driver Leo Fornaroli, as well as Haas reserve drivers Jack Doohan and Ryo Hirakawa. Haas has not yet confirmed which driver will replace Ocon after the 2026 season.
Why This Matters
Ocon’s announcement establishes that Haas will have at least one change to its driver lineup after the 2026 campaign, while the team continues working through a major regulation-change period. Ocon’s experience and technical input have been identified by Ayao Komatsu as important to the development of the VF-26.
The decision also opens a significant opportunity for a leading junior driver. Rafael Camara’s position at the top of the FIA Formula 2 championship places him in contention for a Formula 1 promotion, while Leo Fornaroli, Jack Doohan and Ryo Hirakawa remain alternative candidates. Haas is expected to provide more information on its future driver lineup at a later time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Esteban Ocon leave Haas?
Esteban Ocon will leave Haas at the end of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
What has Esteban Ocon said about his future?
Ocon has not announced his next move, but he said: “This is absolutely not the end of my Formula 1 career.”
Who could replace Esteban Ocon at Haas?
Ferrari junior and FIA Formula 2 championship leader Rafael Camara is the leading candidate. Leo Fornaroli, Jack Doohan and Ryo Hirakawa are also being considered.
