Ocon set for Haas exit as Ferrari junior Camara leads replacement race
Summary
Esteban Ocon is expected to leave Haas at season's end, with Ferrari junior Rafael Camara the frontrunner to replace him. Ocon admits he's a free agent for 2027 as Haas prioritizes keeping Ollie Bearman.
Esteban Ocon is expected to leave Haas at season's end, with Ferrari protege Rafael Camara the leading candidate to replace him. Ocon admitted this week that he is 'definitely a free agent for next year' and is talking to other teams.
Why it matters:
Haas is building around Ferrari-backed Ollie Bearman, and Ocon's exit would open a seat for a younger talent like Camara. With the 2027 grid almost full, Ocon may have to settle for a reserve role.
The details:
- Ocon joined Haas in 2025 after five seasons with Renault/Alpine, but has been outscored by teammate Bearman. He trails 18-3 this season, though Bearman scored 17 of his points in the first two races.
- Haas evaluated alternatives via private testing with Toyota. F2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, Toyota-backed Ryo Hirakawa, and reserve Jack Doohan were assessed, but Ferrari protege and F2 title contender Camara is the frontrunner.
- Haas has an option to extend Ocon into 2027, but is understood to prefer keeping Bearman. Ocon couldn't make a compelling case on performance alone.
- Ocon defended his form: 'My performance hasn't been an issue this year.'
What's next:
Nothing has been signed. Ocon replied 'Let's see' when asked if staying was possible, and cited 'things in the discussion that are out of my control.' Expect movement before season's end.
Original Article :https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/esteban-ocon-set-for-haas-f1-exit-what-we-kno...
