May 25 (GMM) Ayao Komatsu has carefully sidestepped questions about the future of Esteban Ocon – while effectively confirming Haas is already evaluating its 2027 lineup.
The comments come just days after Ocon angrily denied rumours he could even lose his seat before the end of 2026 following reports of internal conflict and dissatisfaction with his performances.
Team boss Komatsu publicly defended the Frenchman in Montreal and blasted media speculation as low-ball journalism. But when pressed again about the team’s future driver plans in Montreal the Japanese became notably cautious.
“When will we start considering the team’s lineup? Around now – May, June, July,” he said.
“I think everyone is looking for drivers for next year right now, and not just us, but all the teams.”
When asked directly whether he intends to keep Ocon and highly rated Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman together, Komatsu declined to give any reassurance.
“I think (answering) that question might cause a bit of a stir,” he admitted. “Because then people will take my words and say: ‘Oh, Ayao said that, so the decision has already been made.'”
“They’ll either say we’re keeping Esteban, or that we’re firing him. It will be completely taken out of context, so I’m not going to answer that question.”
The carefully worded response is likely to intensify speculation around Haas’ plans, with Bearman increasingly linked to bigger opportunities, Toyota-linked Jack Doohan in the reserve role, and several F2 prospects reportedly being discussed within the team.
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
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