Haas sets September deadline for 2027 driver decision

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu says the team is just weeks away from finalizing its 2027 driver lineup, with an announcement potentially arriving before the end of September. The American squad has wrapped up its evaluation and is preparing to discuss findings with owner Gene Haas.

Why it matters:

The decision will determine whether Esteban Ocon remains with the team after a difficult season, or whether Haas promotes one of several young drivers auditioning behind the scenes. With Oliver Bearman already expected to stay for a third season, the second seat is the focus of intense speculation in the F1 driver market.

The details:

• Komatsu said in Baku that Haas hasn't made a decision yet, but a call is expected "within the next couple of weeks."
• Ocon declared himself a "free agent" ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, confirming talks with other teams and admitting some discussions are out of his control.
• The Frenchman has scored only 3 of Haas' 21 points this season, putting his seat under increasing scrutiny.
• Haas has used its Testing of Previous Cars program to evaluate several options: Ferrari junior Rafael Camara, reigning F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, and reserve drivers Jack Doohan and Ryo Hirakawa have all had recent running.
• Doohan completed his first Haas test at Jerez earlier this week.

Komatsu emphasized that outright pace is the first requirement, but for a small team like Haas, character and integration are equally important. "The two drivers, the integration into the team, how they motivate and drive the team, is very important," he said.

What's next:

Haas is aiming to finalize its decision by the end of September, with an internal discussion with Gene Haas as the final step. Ocon, meanwhile, is keeping his options open and says he'll "keep pushing until the end of the year." Whoever lands the seat will be expected to help Haas move up the midfield order.