Physical Violence Denied: Driver Esteban Ocon Breaks Silence on Reports as Hirakawa Replaces Him at Mexico City Grand Prix

Hirakawa takes over the seat

Ocon sat out the opening practice session on Friday, October 30, as reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa drove the car. Formula 1 rules require each driver to give a reserve driver two practice sessions.

Ocon returned for the second practice, but Haas announced before Saturday’s third session that Hirakawa would drive for the rest of the weekend. The team said Hirakawa would join Ollie Bearman for final practice, qualifying and the 71-lap grand prix, marking his Formula 1 race debut.

Ocon rejects violence claims

Reports about Ocon’s removal included claims that a meeting with team principal Ayao Komatsu ended abruptly. One report described the end of the meeting as “perhaps even physically.” In a statement on Instagram, Ocon said a difference of viewpoints led to a discussion with the parties involved. He categorically denied that physical violence had been used and said disagreements should be handled with professionalism and respect.

Questions remain about season

Ocon is set to leave Haas at the end of the season in December, after the team confirmed he would not keep his race seat for 2027. The article says it remains unclear whether he will complete the current season with Haas.

Four races are listed after Mexico City: Brazil, Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. The article also says Qatar and Abu Dhabi may not proceed amid tensions in the Middle East, with Imola reportedly on standby to replace Abu Dhabi if that race is canceled.