Haas rule out Ocon return in 2026 as Camara takes Sao Paulo seat

Haas have ended Esteban Ocon's race duties for the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 season, with Rafael Camara set to take his place at this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix. BBC Sport reported that the Brazilian rookie, already signed by Haas for 2027, will replace the Frenchman for the race in Brazil.

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The announcement extends a decision first taken during the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, when Ocon was removed from the line-up after Friday practice. Haas reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa replaced him there. Team principal Ayao Komatsu confirmed in a statement on Tuesday that Ocon had now been told he would not return to a Haas race seat this season.

Komatsu said the team considered the move to be in its interests, while stressing that neither the latest decision nor the earlier one in Mexico had been taken lightly. He declined to disclose the substance of the discussions with Ocon, saying those conversations would remain private. Haas have not provided a detailed public explanation for standing the driver down.

According to the BBC, Ocon's removal in Mexico followed a disagreement with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre selection during second practice. He was replaced on Saturday morning. In a statement issued during the weekend, Ocon acknowledged a difference of opinion and discussions involving the parties concerned, but firmly denied allegations that physical violence had been used to resolve any disagreement.

Ocon has competed in 198 grands prix since his Formula 1 debut in 2016 and has one race victory, the BBC reported. The decision means he will not add to those appearances with Haas during the remainder of this championship. His experience contrasts with that of Camara, who will step into the seat before the start of his previously agreed 2027 arrangement.

The confirmed replacement plan currently covers Sao Paulo. Haas have not announced who will drive in Ocon's place at the subsequent rounds remaining on the 2026 calendar. Camara's selection for Brazil therefore does not yet establish the team's full driver line-up for the rest of the season.