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Esteban Ocon Denies Haas Exit Rumours

His denial seeks to curb reputational harm from rapid online speculation.

Overview

  • Ocon issued a forceful public rebuttal on Thursday, May 21, saying reports of a dispute with team principal Ayao Komatsu and an early Haas exit were "fabricated" and "complete bullshit."
  • He told media he has a good working relationship with Komatsu and that he is under contract with Haas for the 2026 season and fully committed to the team.
  • The rumours circulated after the Miami Grand Prix and named possible stand‑ins such as reserve driver Jack Doohan and Yuki Tsunoda, but those replacement reports remain unverified.
  • Ocon said the speculation has affected him personally, has worried his family and sponsors, and he criticised outlets that spread the story for making reputational damage with no consequences.
  • The episode highlights how early‑season performance questions — Ocon has been outscored by rookie teammate Oliver Bearman — and a fast social‑media news cycle can fuel unconfirmed seat‑change talk and pressure for teams and drivers.