Hirakawa Replaces Ocon at Haas for Mexico City Grand Prix

Haas has confirmed that reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa will take over from Esteban Ocon for the remainder of the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend. The Japanese driver, who ran in FP1 on Friday, will make his Formula 1 race debut alongside Ollie Bearman. The team did not disclose why Ocon is stepping aside.

Why it matters:

This marks a significant milestone for Hirakawa, a two-time World Endurance champion and Le Mans winner, as he finally gets his first F1 race start at 32. It also raises questions about Ocon's immediate situation at Haas, though the team has offered no explanation. For Haas, it's a chance to evaluate Hirakawa in a competitive setting.

The details:

• Hirakawa, 32, won the FIA WEC in 2022 and 2023 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022 with Toyota Gazoo Racing.
• He has been Haas's reserve driver since 2025 and participated in FP1 at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, finishing 15th.
• He will partner Bearman in FP3, Qualifying, and Sunday's 71-lap Grand Prix.
• Haas stated that no further comments will be made at this time.

What's next:

Hirakawa's performance will be closely watched as he adapts to F1 machinery for the first time in a race weekend. Ocon's status for the remainder of the season remains unclear, with the team yet to reveal the reason for his withdrawal. The Mexico City GP continues with final practice and Qualifying on Saturday.