Esteban Ocon shifts gears to Haas in multi-year Formula One deal

Belgium: French driver Esteban Ocon has secured a multi-year contract with Haas, the American Formula One team announced ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, marking a significant move from his previous team Alpine. The 27-year-old will replace Kevin Magnussen, who recently confirmed his departure from the team.

"I am thrilled to start this new chapter in my Formula 1 career," Ocon expressed.

"I'm joining a highly ambitious racing team whose spirit, work ethic, and clear upward trajectory have greatly impressed me."

Ocon, boasting 146 grands prix, now joins his fourth F1 team after Manor, Force India, and Alpine (previously Renault). His highlight remains clinching both his and Alpine's solitary win at the rain-soaked Hungarian Grand Prix in 2021.

"It was crucial for us to secure a driver with a proven track record in Formula 1, and as a grand prix winner, Esteban unquestionably fits that bill," noted team owner Gene Haas.

"Esteban has consistently shown his competitiveness with the teams he's raced for, frequently scoring points. We aim to build on this continuity as we seek enhanced performance on track."

In the upcoming season, Ocon will partner with 19-year-old British driver Oliver Bearman, who impressed with a seventh-place finish in Jeddah when he substituted for Carlos Sainz on short notice for his sole F1 start.

Team principal Ayao Komatsu expressed delight at Ocon's signing, having previously collaborated with him at the start of his Formula One career.

"His experience, derived not only from his own skillset but also from his tenure with a manufacturer team, will be invaluable to our organizational growth," Komatsu affirmed.

"It was crucial to pair Oliver Bearman with a driver possessing experience. Despite being only 27, Esteban is still young with much to prove. We anticipate a hungry and dynamic driver duo."

Ocon, who debuted in F1 in 2016, revealed that discussions with Haas had commenced during the 2023 season, culminating in a convincing pitch from Komatsu outlining plans for team improvement.

"The team's efforts to enhance performance have already begun to yield results," Ocon remarked during the press briefing in Belgium.

Despite describing the current season with Alpine as frustrating, Ocon emphasized his commitment to finishing on a high note. Alpine currently languishes in eighth place in the constructors' championship, tallying a meager nine points.

"We've encountered persistent challenges this season, reminiscent of issues from three years ago, which is unacceptable in F1," Ocon stated candidly.

With Ocon's signing, 15 of the 20 seats for the 2025 season have now been filled. Meanwhile, Alpine has yet to announce Ocon's successor, with Carlos Sainz emerging as a potential contender.