Haas is already working behind the scenes to define its driver lineup for the 2027 Formula 1 season. Amid rumors involving Esteban Ocon’s departure, the team confirmed that it intends to make a decision about its lineup between May and July of this year.
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This topic gained traction after speculations about a possible strain in the relationship between Ocon and the American team. The Frenchman, however, denied the information during the Canadian GP weekend and described the rumors as ‘complete nonsense,’ receiving public support from the team principal, Ayao Komatsu.
Ocon and Oliver Bearman’s contracts end at the conclusion of the current season, a scenario that places Haas at the center of a driver market that promises to be active in 2027. The expectation is for significant changes on the grid after a more stable period in Formula 1.
Komatsu stated that the team’s decision should happen within a timeline similar to other paddock teams: “Around this time, May, June, and July,” said the executive when commenting on when Haas intends to finalize its driver lineup for the next season.
The team principal avoided, however, directly answering what his choice would be if he had to make the decision immediately: “This kind of question will create problems, right?” he said. According to Komatsu, any comment could be taken out of context and further fuel speculation about Ocon’s continuity.
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Since his arrival at Haas in early 2025, the Frenchman has experienced a stint marked by difficulties. Although his signing was initially seen as an important move by the team after his departure from Alpine, Ocon was often outperformed by his teammate, Bearman, throughout the season.
The young Briton also has an undefined situation for 2027. His future may depend on Ferrari’s next steps, but indications point to the retention of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc at the Italian team, increasing the chances of Bearman continuing at Haas.
If the team needs to look for new options in the market, it is already observing available alternatives. Jack Doohan, currently a reserve driver, appears among the candidates, while Yuki Tsunoda has also been linked to Haas, especially due to the team’s connection with Toyota after the Japanese lost his seat at Red Bull Racing at the end of last season.
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