Haas F1 Boss Blasts Esteban Ocon Rumour as ‘Absolute Bullshit’

Haas F1 Team principal Ayao Komatsu dismisses speculation that Esteban Ocon will be replaced for 2026, branding the widely circulated claims baseless and misleading.

The story, linked to the Miami Grand Prix weekend, alleged tension between Komatsu and Ocon and suggested Yuki Tsunoda as a potential replacement. Komatsu says he spoke with Ocon days earlier and saw no friction.

He criticizes elements of the media for poor verification, noting the rumor originated with a Brazilian journalist before being amplified in France and Japan without corroboration.

Komatsu says the claims created needless anxiety for Ocon and his management, stressing their recent discussions were cordial and even light-hearted.

He argues such reports risk undermining the driver’s reputation and destabilizing team cohesion, diverting focus from ongoing performance work.

Komatsu is particularly unhappy with French media outlets that amplified the rumor, suggesting the coverage offered little benefit to a French driver under scrutiny.

Asked about the 2027 lineup, Komatsu declines to commit. He notes teams routinely assess options mid-season and warns that partial comments invite misinterpretation and fresh speculation.

The backdrop is a tightening driver market as teams plan for 2026’s technical reset, though Haas signals continuity. That context frames recent discussion of Ocon’s position within Haas and the risks of premature conclusions.

Across the paddock, rumor-driven narratives remain common, often drawing rebukes from senior figures concerned about accuracy and impact, as seen in wider team boss complaints this season.

Operationally, stability is valuable for Haas as it refines plans for 2026 power unit integration and car architecture. Avoiding speculation helps maintain clarity in roles and priorities.

Supporters should expect any changes to be communicated by Haas once decisions are final. That mirrors how rivals manage 2026 preparations, including ongoing Williams evaluations under the new ruleset.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.