Formula 1 has always been ruthless, with drivers sometimes losing their seats mid-season. And in 2026, Esteban Ocon could be the next to go, this time at Haas.
There were two drivers who were dropped before the end of the 2025 season. Liam Lawson lasted just two races with Red Bull before Yuki Tsunoda replaced him. He stayed on the grid with Racing Bulls, though, unlike Jack Doohan, who left after six races with Alpine.
The final driver change of 2025 came when Franco Colapinto took over from Doohan. This kind of mid-season move might happen again in 2026, with growing pressure on Ocon at Haas.
Ocon lost to rookie teammate Ollie Bearman last year and knows he needs better results this season. So far, though, he has only one point compared to Bearman’s 17.
Esteban Ocon facing early exit from Haas
Esteban Ocon is feeling the pressure to keep his seat with Haas. The team hasn’t been happy with his performance, and so far in 2026, things haven’t improved. The relationship between him and the team is beginning to show some strain.
Ocon has also reportedly clashed with Komatsu after another pointless race in Miami. His spot at Haas is now uncertain, with journalist Julianne Cerasoli suggesting that he may not be able to hold on for much longer.
She told UOL Esporte: “Well, Komatsu doesn’t like Ocon – clearly doesn’t like him – and isn’t happy with what he’s doing.
I’ve even heard that, well, I don’t know if Ocon will finish the season. So just to be clear, Ocon’s situation isn’t looking good at all in there, no.”
Potential options if Haas decides to move on from Ocon mid-season
Should Haas decide to part ways with Esteban Ocon before the season wraps up, there are a few different paths they could take to fill his seat.
Jack Doohan is already in the picture as Haas’ test and reserve driver after his departure from Alpine. If a spot opens up, he’d naturally be one of the first names mentioned for a return to racing.
But he wouldn’t be alone in that conversation. Ryo Hirakawa has been gaining experience with Haas during FP1 sessions and could leverage his Toyota ties into a more permanent role.
There’s also the chance Haas looks toward the Ferrari academy for fresh talent, with both Rafael Camara and Dino Beganovic making strong starts to their Formula 2 campaigns this year.
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