BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) — Esteban Ocon said Wednesday he is “definitely a free agent” for the 2027 Formula 1 season as an exit from the Haas team appears likely.
Ocon said he's holding talks with other teams as he nears the end of his second season with Haas.
“At the moment I’m definitely a free agent for next year,” Ocon said ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. “There are things in discussion that are out of my control, there are certain topics that are out of my control. I will keep pushing until the end of the year and see how it goes.”
Asked if he was speaking with other teams, Ocon added: “Of course.”
Ocon has been outscored 18-3 by teammate Oliver Bearman this season, with a best finish of ninth at the Monaco Grand Prix. He defended his record Wednesday, saying “my performance hasn't been an issue this year” as Haas dealt with an inconsistent car.
The French driver, who made his race debut in 2016 and took his sole F1 win with Alpine in 2021, has dropped off the starting grid before. He was replaced at Racing Point at the end of 2018 and spent the following year as a Mercedes reserve before joining Alpine in 2020.
Potential replacements for 2027 could include Formula 2 title contender Rafael Câmara or Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa.
Câmara is part of the junior driver program as Haas' engine supplier Ferrari, just as Haas' other driver Bearman was. Hirakawa is backed by Haas partner Toyota and has driven two practice sessions for the team this season.
Bearman signaled Wednesday he is likely to stay with Haas for 2027.
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