Esteban Ocon’s future in Formula 1 appears increasingly uncertain as the 2027 season approaches: besides underwhelming performances, his salary cost would weigh in the balance…
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While Max Verstappen’s extension sheds light on the driver market, Haas already seems to be considering a change in its line-up.
Arriving at Haas in 2025 after his departure from Alpine, Ocon is experiencing a challenging 2026 season. The Frenchman is notably struggling to gain the upper hand over his young teammate Oliver Bearman, whose performances have apparently convinced the team more.
Rumors have also mentioned tensions with team principal Ayao Komatsu. While the existence of a real conflict has been downplayed, the Japanese man would nevertheless be disappointed by some of Ocon’s results.
A financial problem as well
But performances are not the only element threatening his future. According to journalist Julianne Cerasoli, Haas is currently the only team on the grid operating under the budget cap, lacking sufficient resources to reach the allowed limit.
This situation would put strong pressure on Komatsu to reduce costs and find new financial solutions. However, Ocon is considered a relatively expensive driver.
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“The problem with Ocon is that he is an expensive driver. So that’s one of the factors working against the Frenchman,” explains Cerasoli.
His salary could thus become a decisive factor when Haas decides on its duo for 2027.
Camara and Fornaroli among the candidates
Two young drivers are already linked to the seat: Rafael Camara and Leonardo Fornaroli. The situation is nevertheless complicated by Bearman’s presence, closely tied to Ferrari. Haas has so far never fielded two drivers belonging to the Scuderia’s driver program simultaneously, which could influence the choice of his future teammate.
For Ocon, alternatives could also be limited. Since Verstappen remains at Red Bull and if Alonso continues his career with Aston Martin, the market should see very few movements. Given his friendly ties with Lance Stroll, Ocon could however inherit a reserve seat at Silverstone.
The Frenchman thus finds himself in a delicate position: he must not only improve his performances against Bearman, but also convince Haas that his experience justifies his cost compared to potentially cheaper young drivers, under threat of being sidelined.
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