F1 controversy truth as driver banned after row and immediately replaced
Esteban Ocon has been axed by Haas for the remainder of the season and will not race for them again following a dispute with his team principal. The team revealed on Tuesday evening that Ocon has been removed from the team for the rest of the 2026 season after it had already been announced that he would not retain a seat for 2027. The team also confirmed that Ferrari driver Rafael Camara would join Ollie Bearman for this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix, stepping in for Ocon, before assuming the position permanently next year.
TL;DR
- Esteban Ocon has been removed from Haas for the rest of the 2026 F1 season.
- Ferrari driver Rafael Camara will replace Ocon starting this weekend and permanently in 2027.
- Ocon was previously dropped for the Mexico City Grand Prix and replaced by Ryo Hirakawa.
- The removal follows a dispute with team principal Ayao Komatsu, reportedly over tyre strategy and a subsequent physical altercation.
- Ocon denies any physical violence, stating only a 'difference in viewpoints' occurred.
- Ocon's seat for 2027 was already not being renewed by Haas.
- Ocon may be without a drive for the first time since 2019.