Five Candidates for One Seat: The Battle for Ocon’s Haas Drive Intensifies

Haas boss Ayao Komatsu has confirmed what the paddock already suspected – Esteban Ocon’s seat for the 2027 season is officially open to competition among five different drivers. The team held a test session at Portimao with three of the candidates, with further trials still to come at Jerez before a final decision is made.

Among the names competing for the seat is Ferrari junior Rafael Camara, whose strong times in recent tests have made him a favourite in the eyes of many observers. Also in the running are the team’s own reserve drivers, including Japan’s Takuma Hirakawa, who moved to Haas from Alpine.

For Ocon, the situation sends a clear signal – his performances over the rest of the season will likely be decisive in whether he stays at Haas or has to look for a new home in Formula 1 for 2027.