'Esteban Ocon could leave Haas as early as this season and quit Formula 1'

It’s another tough year for Esteban Ocon. The Frenchman is in the shadow of Oliver Bearman, who has already scored 17 points. Ocon himself sits on a meager single point. Ralf Schumacher therefore says in the Boxengasse podcast of German Sky Sports: “One thing is clear: Ocon is not good enough. At best he’s equal to Bearman, and most of the time he’s worse.”

Schumacher points out that Bearman is only at the beginning of his Formula 1 career and is already showing Ocon up on track. According to the former German driver, an Ocon who is outperformed by a teammate generally creates a toxic atmosphere internally.

As a result, Schumacher is considering a radical measure: “I can’t imagine we’ll still see Ocon next year. That’s as good as certain, unless a team has a big problem.” He also says: “It’s not out of the question that they (Haas, ed.) will already start looking for someone else this season.”

If Ocon is shown the door, Haas may have to find two new drivers for next season. Oliver Bearman is, after all, a Ferrari driver, loaned to Haas by the Italians to gain experience. If Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc were to leave the Scuderia, it would be logical for Ferrari to turn to Bearman.

Who would succeed Ocon and Bearman at the American team is a matter of speculation. It’s no secret that technical partner Toyota would like to see one of its protégés make it to Formula 1. Ryo Hirakawa, a Haas reserve driver, is the first name that comes to mind. However, the Japanese driver is already 32, not an age for a long F1 career. That said, Hirakawa is shining this season in the World Endurance Championship with Toyota.

Another name certainly in the frame is Jack Doohan. The Australian is also a Haas reserve driver, after a frustrating stint with Alpine. The son of motorcycle legend Mick wants to bounce back and prove he does belong in F1. It’s quite possible that Doohan chose a reserve contract at Haas because it offers him a view to a race seat.