Haas drops Ocon for rest of 2026, Camara to replace him in São Paulo

Haas has dropped Esteban Ocon from its race line-up for the rest of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Brazilian rookie Rafael Camara will replace him at this weekend’s São Paulo Grand Prix; Camara is already signed by the team for 2027.

Team principal Ayao Komatsu said on Tuesday that the decision, like the earlier one in Mexico City, was not taken lightly and was in the team’s best interests. He said the conversations between Haas and Ocon would remain private.

Ocon was stood down on Saturday morning at the Mexico City Grand Prix, with reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa taking his place. The decision followed a dispute with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre choice during Friday’s second practice. Haas has not given details of what led it to drop Ocon in Mexico.

According to the BBC, French newspaper L’Équipe reported that a meeting between Ocon and Komatsu “ended abruptly, perhaps even physically”. In a subsequent statement, Ocon categorically rejected suggestions that physical violence had been used to resolve differences, while acknowledging that a difference of views had led to a discussion.

Ocon has competed in 198 grands prix since his 2016 debut and has one victory. He is looking for a reserve drive. Haas has not said who will take his seat for the remaining races after São Paulo.