Ocon denies physical violence after Haas drops him for Mexico City GP

Esteban Ocon has denied allegations that physical violence was used to settle a disagreement. His statement came after Haas dropped him for the rest of the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend.

Unsubstantiated rumours in French media had suggested a possible physical altercation with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu. In a statement on Saturday, Ocon said a difference of views had led to a discussion with those involved the previous night. He added: “I strongly condemn violence in all its forms.” He called for disagreements to be handled with professionalism, respect and mutual understanding, and asked for speculation to be avoided while the matter was being addressed.

Haas had put reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa in Ocon’s car from third practice onwards. The team said the Frenchman’s absence was not due to illness but gave no official reason for the change.

Reports had linked the decision to a heated radio exchange between Ocon and race engineer Laura Mueller during Friday’s second practice, over a required change in tyre strategy from soft to medium compounds. Komatsu declined to confirm or deny whether that exchange prompted the decision.

Haas had already chosen Rafa Camara to replace Ocon for 2027. At the time of the statement, it was unclear whether Ocon would return for the following weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix.