Ocon would accept F1 reserve role rather than race elsewhere

Esteban Ocon says he would accept a reserve role in Formula 1 rather than race in another series if he cannot secure a 2027 race seat, as he seeks to remain in the sport after leaving Haas at the end of the 2026 season. The French driver said during a press conference in Singapore and in an interview published October 8 that Formula 1 is his sole focus for the near future. He said he would keep pursuing a race seat and would take a third-driver position if no racing opportunity is available next year. Ocon said he wants to compete in Formula 1 for the next five to seven years. Haas announced that Ocon will not return to the team after this season. He has driven for Haas since 2025. His plans for 2027 remain unsettled, and he has not identified any teams with which he is discussing opportunities. Ocon said discussions were ongoing and that he would share news when he had more to announce. Ocon has previously served as a reserve driver before returning to a race seat. He held that role with Mercedes in 2019, then joined Renault for the 2020 season. He cited that experience as a precedent, though it does not establish what role he will take next year.