Komatsu says Haas staff were surprised by Ocon's removal in Mexico

Ayao Komatsu recalled that “of course everybody was surprised” when he told Haas staff on Saturday morning of the Mexican Grand Prix weekend that Esteban Ocon would not drive for the team for the rest of the event. Reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa took his place.

Haas dropped Ocon after a falling-out that followed Friday practice at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. A disagreement with race engineer Laura Mueller over FP2 run plans was broadcast over team radio, while the wider circumstances remained unclear.

Komatsu said he normally aims to be transparent with his team, but could not discuss the situation further. Ocon will not return to the cockpit this season.