Esteban Ocon is fighting to save his Formula 1 career after Haas announced they will part ways with the Frenchman at the end of the year. Ocon, who won the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix for Alpine, joined Haas in 2025. He has competed in F1 since 2016, previously driving for Manor and Force India.

With no obvious 2027 grid seats available, Ocon remains determined, stating, "This is absolutely not the end of my Formula 1 career." The 30-year-old expressed pride in his performances despite challenging circumstances, vowing to give his all in the remaining races. Ocon has been outperformed by teammate Oliver Bearman since joining Haas. This year, Bearman sits 13th in the championship, three places and 13 points ahead of Ocon.

Bearman has out-qualified Ocon 13-6 with an average advantage of 0.144 seconds. Last year, Bearman finished 13th and Ocon 15th, separated by just three points, with qualifying head-to-head at 18-7 at 0.175 seconds. Haas team principal Ayao Kumatso praised Ocon's professionalism and commitment, highlighting his valuable experience and inputs during the development of the VF-26 under major regulation changes.