The key facts

  • Ocon denied reports of a physical conflict with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu
  • He was replaced by Ryo Hirakawa — the oldest debutant since Andrea Lotterer in 2014
  • Haas did not explain the reason for the sudden replacement; the team had previously announced that Rafael Camara would take the seat next season

Ocon denies reports of physical altercation

French driver Esteban Ocon on Saturday denied reports that the American team Haas had parted ways with him after a conflict with team principal Ayao Komatsu that allegedly turned physical. The statement from the 30-year-old Frenchman said that he 'categorically rejects any reports or suggestions that any disagreements were resolved through physical violence.' This was reported by AFP.

Sudden replacement without explanation

On Saturday, Ocon, who had taken part in both Friday practice sessions, was replaced by 32-year-old Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa — a Le Mans winner with Toyota and a two-time world endurance champion. He became the oldest Formula 1 debutant since Andrea Lotterer at the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix. Haas gave no explanation for the sudden replacement.

Tire disagreements and an earlier announced replacement

The rumors were likely prompted by Friday's incident: during the second practice session, Ocon argued over the radio with race engineer Laura Mueller over the choice of tires — the team insisted on mediums, while he wanted softs: 'No, I want the softs — don't do this to me,' he said at the time. In his statement, Ocon explained that 'a difference of views led to a discussion involving the parties concerned,' condemned violence in all forms, and asked that speculation be avoided while the matter was being resolved. It is also noted that a month ago Haas had already announced that next year Ocon would be replaced by Brazilian Rafael Camara from the Ferrari academy — meaning the Frenchman's departure at the end of the season was known in advance, and it is precisely for this reason that it remains unclear what exactly led to his being sidelined for the rest of the current season.