Esteban Ocon will leave Haas at the end of the 2026 season. The split is now official, but the Frenchman is determined to continue in Formula 1. His plans for 2027 remain unresolved, and Haas has yet to name his replacement.

A difficult season ends in a split

Ocon joined from Alpine in 2025, bringing the experience of a Grand Prix winner. Two seasons later, that partnership is coming to an end. Team principal Ayao Komatsu thanked him for his contribution, including his work on developing the VF-26 under the new technical regulations.

Baku at least offered some encouragement. Ocon finished eighth, ahead of ninth-placed Oliver Bearman, and came close to taking seventh before Arvid Lindblad edged him out at the line. Those four points, however, were not enough to change the direction of his Haas future.

Still looking for a place on the grid

Even before the Azerbaijan race, Ocon had described himself as a free agent for next year. At 30, with a decade in F1 behind him, he believes he still has more to offer. His response to the split made clear that he remains motivated and intends to keep pursuing his career in the championship.

Motorsport.com names Leonardo Fornaroli and Rafael Camara among the candidates for the seat. Neither has been confirmed by Haas.

Ocon now has two jobs: finish the season strongly and find his next opportunity. His Haas chapter is ending. Whether that also means a year away from the grid in 2027 remains an open question.

Sources: Motorsport.com, Haas F1 Team, Formula1.com.