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Esteban Ocon’s fresh start at Haas may already be collapsing, with reports claiming tensions with team boss Ayao Komatsu could even trigger a mid-season exit.
Haas’ Esteban Ocon (AFP)
Many viewed Esteban Ocon’s move to Haas F1 Team as the perfect reset button. A clean slate after two chaotic seasons with Alpine F1 Team.
But just a few months into the 2026 Formula 1 season, it appears the Frenchman may already be staring at another messy fallout.
According to respected F1 journalist Julien CerasoliOcon’s relationship with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has deteriorated significantly — to the point where his seat could reportedly be under threat before the season is even over.
And if the rumours are true, Haas may not even wait until the winter break.
A Nightmare Start At Haas
When Ocon signed for Haas in 2025, he was expected to lead the team into a new era. Up against rookie Oliver Bearman, who had only featured in three Grand Prix weekends at the time, many assumed the experienced Frenchman would comfortably establish himself as the team’s number one.
Instead, the early numbers tell a brutal story.
Ocon has managed just a single point so far this season, while Bearman has already collected 17.
Reports suggest Haas are unhappy with Ocon’s performances, while the driver himself is frustrated with how he is being handled internally.
“Ayao Komatsu doesn’t like Ocon. He clearly doesn’t like him, and he’s not happy with his current performance,” Cerasoli said via F1-Gate.
“In fact, I’ve heard that he’s not sure if Ocon will be able to compete until the end of the season. So, to put it bluntly, Ocon’s current situation is not good at all.”
Miami Fallout Fuels Speculation
The situation reportedly worsened after an alleged fallout between Ocon and Komatsu during the Miami Grand Prix weekend.
While details remain unclear, the incident has only intensified speculation surrounding Ocon’s future at Haas.
There are even whispers within the paddock that the Frenchman could be replaced mid-season if results fail to improve quickly.
Among the names being linked as potential replacements are Jack Doohan, Ryo Hirakawa, and Yuki Tsunoda.
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