Ocon says he is a free agent for 2027

Esteban Ocon says he is a free agent for the 2027 Formula 1 season and is speaking with teams other than Haas, leaving his future with the team unresolved as it considers its driver lineup. The French driver made the comments to reporters in Baku ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, saying some discussions were beyond his control and that he would keep pushing until the end of the year. Asked whether remaining at Haas was still possible, Ocon replied, “Let’s see.” He did not confirm that he was leaving the team or identify any other team he was negotiating with. Haas has not announced its 2027 pairing. Its official lineup for 2026 lists Ocon alongside Oliver Bearman. Haas has been evaluating potential drivers through its testing of previous cars programme, according to reports. Names cited among those assessed include Ferrari junior Rafael Câmara, reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa and Leonardo Fornaroli. Reports differ on the candidates included in the tests and where some sessions took place, so the precise scope of the evaluation is unclear. One report said Haas had decided to replace Ocon with Câmara for 2027 and that a deal was close. Haas has not publicly confirmed that account.