Esteban Ocon’s place at Haas was put under the microscope on 5 July 2026 when team boss Guenther Steiner publicly asked whether the French driver deserves to stay after a string of lack‑lustre results this season.
Why is Steiner questioning Ocon now?
Steiner pointed to the stark contrast between Ocon and his teammate Ollie Bearman. In the 2026 campaign Bearman has out‑qualified Ocon six times to two, and finished five races ahead in the Grand Prix tally. The British driver sits 11th in the Drivers’ Championship with 18 points, while Ocon lags in 16th place with just three. “His performance isn’t where it should be,” Steiner told Sports Mole, adding that experience alone doesn’t guarantee a seat.
Who could replace Ocon at Haas?
The former McLaren reserve driver and 2025 Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli has emerged as a leading candidate. Fornaroli, fresh from a dominant F2 season, is already linked with McLaren’s reserve role, but Haas could view him as a cost‑effective upgrade. Another name circulating is Ferrari academy driver Rafael Camara, a rising star still competing in Formula 2. Both are touted as “young talent” that could inject new energy into the team.
Could an experienced driver return?
Steiner also mentioned Yuki Tsunoda as a possible fallback if Haas prefers experience over youth. The Japanese driver, currently a Red Bull reserve after losing his race seat to Isak Hadjar at the end of 2025, brings a solid track record. However, his ties to Honda may clash with Haas’s potential partnership with Toyota, which could limit his appeal. “There isn’t a lot of experienced material out there,” Steiner admitted.
What does this mean for Ocon’s career?
If Haas decides to move on, Ocon could find himself back on the market as a free agent. His three‑point haul this season makes him a less attractive option for top‑tier teams, but his experience and previous podiums might still interest midfield outfits looking for a steady hand. The driver’s next move will likely hinge on whether he can deliver a strong result in the remaining races of 2026.
How will the team react?
Haas has not issued an official statement beyond Steiner’s interview. The team’s technical director hinted that “performance metrics are being reviewed closely,” suggesting that any decision will be data‑driven. Fans and sponsors are watching closely, as a driver change could reshape the team’s development direction for 2027.
What’s next for the Haas roster?
The off‑season will reveal whether Ocon stays, a rookie steps up, or an experienced hand like Tsunoda returns. With the 2026 season winding down, every qualifying session and race finish now carries extra weight for Ocon’s future. The next few Grand Prixes will likely be the final audition for the Frenchman at the American outfit.