‘Out of my control’: Esteban Ocon admits potential Haas exit as 2027 F1 free agent

Baku: Esteban Ocon said Wednesday that he is “definitely a free agent” for the 2027 Formula 1 season as an exit from the Haas team appears likely.

Ocon confirmed he is holding discussions with other teams as he nears the conclusion of his second season with Haas.

“At the moment I'm definitely a free agent for next year,” Ocon said ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. “There are things in discussion that are out of my control; there are certain topics that are out of my control. I will keep pushing until the end of the year and see how it goes.”

Asked whether he was in dialogue with rival teams, Ocon added: “Of course.”

Ocon has been outscored 18-3 by teammate Oliver Bearman this season, recording a best finish of ninth at the Monaco Grand Prix. He defended his record Wednesday, stating “my performance hasn't been an issue this year” while Haas contended with an inconsistent car.

The French driver, who made his race debut in 2016 and secured his lone F1 victory with Alpine in 2021, has previously lost his place on the starting grid. He was replaced at Racing Point at the end of 2018 and spent the subsequent year as a Mercedes reserve driver before returning to the grid with Alpine in 2020.

Potential replacements for 2027 could include Formula 2 title contender Rafael Câmara or Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa.

Câmara belongs to the junior driver programme at Haas' engine supplier Ferrari, the same development path taken by Bearman. Hirakawa is backed by Haas partner Toyota and has taken part in two practice sessions for the team this season.

Bearman indicated Wednesday that he is likely to remain with Haas for 2027.

AP