JUNE 26, 2026

Ocon shrugs off growing Haas exit speculation

Esteban Ocon has brushed aside intensifying speculation that Haas is preparing to replace him for 2027.

The Frenchman is increasingly being linked with an exit as the Formula 1 driver market gathers pace at the Austrian GP, with several names already connected to the seat alongside Oliver Bearman.

Ferrari-backed Rafael Camara is among the contenders, as is reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, who is supported by McLaren and recently tested for Haas at Jerez.

Current Red Bull reserve Yuki Tsunoda has also been linked, with Haas' close Toyota ties and team boss Ayao Komatsu's Japanese connections potentially strengthening his chances.

Ocon, however, insists he has the full backing of the team.

The team trusts me, Ayao trusts me, he said.

"I think Ayao already talked about this in Canada. I already discussed a lot of these topics in Canada. I'm focused on doing everything we can with the team to improve.

So I'm calm, trying to do my best, focusing on the right things.

The 29-year-old also sounded frustrated by the speculation swirling around the paddock.

People can say whatever they want, but frankly, I don't give a damn. I just want to do my job well.

Ocon admits Haas' recent form has been disappointing.

The last three or four races have been pretty tough for the whole team, he said. "Of course, we've scored a few points, but not enough, not the way we want, and we need to get back into shape.

We deserve it. We've been working hard. But it hasn't paid off yet.

He is also refusing to think about 2027.

What race are we in now, seventh, eighth? Ocon said. "As a driver, I have to focus on performance on the track. Everything else follows.

"Obviously, we have more serious issues with the car than that right now. So that's what we need to address first.

If we solve the car issues and get better performance, everything will become easier.

He added: "There will always be talk.

"When you look deeper and understand why I haven't had many points this year, we know the real reasons internally, within the team and among those close to us, so that's the most important thing.

We know we're doing the right thing. Now we need to make it pay off.

(GMM)