Esteban Ocon’s future at Haas has once again become the subject of speculation in the Formula 1 paddock, after Ayao Komatsu avoided confirming the Frenchman’s stay with the team. The Japanese executive dodged questions about the driver lineup for the next season and increased doubts about Ocon’s continuity.
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Some rumors grew since the Miami GP, when reports of a discussion between Komatsu and the French driver during the race weekend in the USA emerged. At the same time, Ocon’s performance began to be compared to that of teammate Oliver Bearman, while Yuki Tsunoda appeared linked to a possible spot in the American team.
Neither Ocon nor Komatsu were pleased with the publications involving the alleged disagreement. According to the report, the Haas boss showed irritation when commenting on the matter and even used swear words when answering questions about the situation.
When asked when he would start evaluating driver options for the next season, Komatsu admitted that the process is already underway: “Around this time, May, June, and July. I think everyone is looking at drivers for next year, not just us, but all teams,” he said.
Subsequently, the executive was pressed about a possible immediate definition of the Haas lineup. The question suggested that a public confirmation of Ocon and Bearman could help end the rumors involving the Frenchman.
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Komatsu, however, avoided answering directly and declined the opportunity to guarantee the stay of both drivers: “I think a question like that will create confusion, right?” the American team boss responded to journalists.
The Japanese also explained why he preferred not to get into the subject: “People will take my words and say: ‘Ayao said this, you decided now, will continue with Esteban or not.’ They will take everything completely out of context, so I will not answer that question,” concluded the Haas boss.
These statements keep Ocon’s scenario open for the next Formula 1 season. Even without any confirmation of immediate changes, the lack of guarantees from Haas further fuels speculation about the French driver’s future within the category.
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