Ocon's Replacement for Brazil GP Named

Esteban Ocon's departure from Haas was already set to happen after joining in 2025. Ocon denied any physical confrontation occurred, stating only that a difference in viewpoints led to a discussion with the parties involved.

Ocon's performance in Mexico City was marked by a lack of pace, with his fastest time in practice nearly a second slower than Charles Leclerc's. This led to a tense radio exchange with race engineer Laura Mueller.

Haas opted to call up Ryo Hirakawa, a 32-year-old Japanese racing driver, as Ocon's replacement for the Brazil GP. Hirakawa, a rookie, managed to score points after several drivers were penalized.

Hirakawa is set to compete in the World Endurance Championships in Monza, opening the door for Jack Doohan to take over. Doohan, the Official Reserve Driver for Haas, previously competed for Alpine in 2025 before being dropped after six rounds.

F1 journalist Julianne Cerasoli reported that the majority of the paddock is betting on Doohan to replace Hirakawa after Monza. Doohan's return to Haas would mark an unlikely comeback for the Australian driver.