Esteban Ocon denies being violent in first words since losing Haas F1 seat

October 31, 2026

Esteban Ocon has responded to reports of a physical confrontation with Haas F1 team principal Ayao Komatsu following his abrupt dismissal before the Mexico City Grand Prix. The French driver, who was dropped without explanation just hours before final practice on Saturday, denied any violent altercation in a statement released after his removal from the lineup.

Ocon acknowledged a heated discussion over differing viewpoints but firmly rejected claims of physical violence, emphasizing that disagreements should be handled professionally. His replacement, reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa, will compete in his place at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

Earlier in the weekend, Ocon had also clashed with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre strategy decisions during second practice on Friday, though no details of that exchange were confirmed as part of the broader dispute.

Haas has provided no official explanation for Ocon’s sudden sidelining, fueling speculation of internal tensions. The team’s decision came as a shock, given Ocon’s status as a key driver, and his statement urged restraint while the situation is resolved.

Further updates from Haas or Ocon’s camp are expected as the matter develops.