Nov.1 (GMM) Esteban Ocon has been abruptly dropped by Haas for the remainder of the Mexican GP weekend after an extraordinary breakdown in his relationship with the team.
Haas announced on Saturday morning that reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa would replace Ocon for FP3, qualifying and Sunday’s race, giving the 32-year-old Toyota WEC driver his Formula 1 debut.
“No further statements will be made at this time,” the team said, failing to explain what happened in the media statement.
Hirakawa qualified only 18th, a second behind Oliver Bearman.
The drama followed obvious tension during Friday practice, when Ocon argued with race engineer Laura Mueller after Haas switched his planned high-fuel run from soft to medium tyres.
“No, no! I want to do soft,” Ocon protested.
“It is my turn this weekend, come on.”
But the situation appears to have escalated afterwards.
L’Equipe reported that a Friday evening meeting between Ocon and team boss Ayao Komatsu “ended abruptly, perhaps even physically”.
Ocon then issued a formal statement categorically denying any violence.
“Whilst I acknowledge that this took place, I categorically reject any reports or allegations suggesting that any form of physical violence was used to resolve any differences of any nature,” the Frenchman insisted.
“I strongly condemn violence in all its forms.”
Komatsu confirmed only that Ocon was not ill and refused to explain the decision.
“I can’t tell you much, but at least I can tell you that he’s not ill.”
When asked whether the radio dispute had caused the split, he said: “No, I’m sorry, but I can’t go into any details.”
The situation also leaves Haas with an immediate problem for Brazil next weekend because Hirakawa is due to contest the WEC finale, with speculation already linking Ocon’s full-time 2027 replacement Rafael Camara or Jack Doohan to the seat.
Former F1 driver Olivier Panis reacted angrily.
“Firing Esteban Ocon, a talented, consistent driver and Grand Prix winner, is a real disgrace,” Auto Hebdo quotes him as saying.
“They’re sacrificing sporting merit for political and commercial reasons.”
Ocon, meanwhile, is being linked with an Aston Martin reserve role for 2027.
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience the thrill of the Canadian Grand Prix with Grand Prix Tours! Feel the excitement of Formula 1 as the world's best drivers battle it out on Montreal's iconic Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Explore the vibrant city, enjoy unforgettable race weekend experiences, and soak up the electric atmosphere. Make your Canadian Grand Prix getaway one to remember with our exclusive travel packages. Secure your spot today!
SHOW PACKAGES