Esteban Ocon has broken his silence after Haas F1 Team shockingly replaced him with Ryo Hirakawa midway through the 2026 Mexico City GP weekend. Ocon has rejected speculation that a physical altercation took place during a disagreement with team personnel that led to his exit.
The Frenchman released a statement on X firmly rejecting all allegations of physical violence.
“Following the recent decision from Haas F1 Team confirming that I will not be participating in this weekend’s Mexico City Grand Prix, I wish to formally address some media reports and speculation surrounding the situation,” the Frenchman wrote on X.
“Last night, a difference in viewpoints led to a discussion with the parties involved. 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.
“I strongly condemn violence in all its forms and firmly believe that disagreements should always be handled with professionalism, respect, and mutual understanding.
“I kindly ask that speculation be avoided while the matter is being addressed. Further updates will be communicated in due course.”
Haas F1 Team announced on Saturday morning through X that Ocon would not participate in the remainder of the weekend, despite having returned to the cockpit for Friday’s FP2. Reserve driver Hirakawa was subsequently called in to take over the Frenchman’s seat, marking his Formula 1 qualifying and race debut in Mexico.
How Things Between Esteban Ocon and Haas Escalated
The controversy intensified after French newspaper L’Équipe reported that a meeting between Ocon and team principal Ayao Komatsu on Friday evening had ended abruptly, potentially even turning physical.
The reports emerged following a tense Friday practice session in Mexico. During FP2, Ocon was visibly frustrated with the team’s decision to change his running plan and put him on medium tires instead of the soft compound. Haas wanted the Frenchman to switch to medium tires for a longer run.
Ocon was heard expressing his frustration over team radio, telling his race engineer Laura Mueller: “No, no, I wanted the soft, like, don’t do that to me. Come on.”
What Ayao Komatsu Said on Esteban Ocon’s Sudden Replacement
During the final practice session, Komatsu was asked about Ocon’s unexpected benching, but the Haas boss chose not to reveal much about it. However, he confirmed that the Frenchman was not ill.
“I can’t tell you much, but at least I can tell you that he’s not ill,” Komatsu told Sky Sports F1.
It also remains unclear whether Esteban Ocon will return to the cockpit for the remainder of the season. Last month, Haas had already confirmed that he will leave the team at the end of 2026. The latest developments could end his Haas career earlier than expected.
Meanwhile, Hirakawa, who stepped into Ocon’s seat, has qualified 19th and is all set for his F1 debut on Sunday.
More F1 Reading
- FIA Warns Drivers of Penalties for Keeping Off-Track Gains on Mexico City GP Lap 1
- Liam Lawson Disqualified From Mexico City GP Qualifying Over MGU-K Infringement
- Lewis Hamilton Stands Out in Reaching Out to Esteban Ocon After Haas Exit
- Who Is Rafael Camara, the Haas Driver Tipped To Replace Esteban Ocon for Remaining 2026 F1 Races?
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FIA Warns Drivers of Penalties for Keeping Off-Track Gains on Mexico City GP Lap 1
Liam Lawson Disqualified From Mexico City GP Qualifying Over MGU-K Infringement
Lewis Hamilton Stands Out in Reaching Out to Esteban Ocon After Haas Exit
Who Is Rafael Camara, the Haas Driver Tipped To Replace Esteban Ocon for Remaining 2026 F1 Races?
