Esteban Ocon has denied reports that his removal from the Haas lineup at the Mexico City Grand Prix stemmed from a row with team principal Ayao Komatsu that turned into a physical confrontation. The 30-year-old French driver acknowledged via a social media statement that differing viewpoints resulted in a discussion involving the parties concerned.
Denial of Physical Violence
Ocon stated that he categorically rejected any allegations or reports suggesting that any form of physical violence was used to resolve any differences whatsoever. His remarks responded to a report by the French publication L’Equipe, which indicated that a meeting between Komatsu and Ocon concluded abruptly and potentially in a physical manner.
The decision to bench Ocon for the remainder of the Mexico weekend followed an on-track dispute with race engineer Laura Mueller regarding tyre selection during Friday’s second practice session. Mueller communicated that plans to run the soft-compound tyre had altered and he would instead switch to the medium compound. Ocon responded over the radio telling her not to do that to him and insisting he wanted the soft tyre.
Team Status and Future
Haas has not released additional details concerning events following the practice session, maintaining only that Ocon has been dropped for the weekend’s race. Last month, the team announced that Ocon would depart at the end of the season, with Formula 2 championship leader and Ferrari driver development programme member Rafael Camara stepping in as his replacement. Neither Haas nor representatives from Ocon’s management have addressed whether he will pilot a Haas car in the remaining races of the year.
In his statement on Saturday, Ocon strongly condemned violence in all its forms and asserted that disagreements must always be handled with professionalism, respect, and mutual understanding. He requested that speculation be avoided while the matter is being addressed and stated that further updates will be communicated in due course.
