Ocon receives powerful backing as former F1 winner slams Haas decision
Photo: Race Pictures
Tobia is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog with experience at international circuits. Since 2022, he has covered Grands Prix across Europe, delivering reliable coverage and insights from the paddock.
Former Formula 1 driver Olivier Panis has publicly defended Esteban Ocon following his controversial departure from Haas, criticising the decision and suggesting that political and commercial interests have taken priority over sporting merit.
The former Grand Prix winner took to Instagram to express his disappointment at the treatment of his fellow Frenchman, who was withdrawn from the Mexican Grand Prix weekend following a disciplinary dispute with the American outfit.
"Firing Esteban Ocon, a talented, regular and Grand Prix winner driver, is a real shame: merit is sacrificed for the sake of political and commercial choices," Panis wrote on Instagram.
His comments come after a turbulent few days for Ocon, who was already scheduled to leave Haas at the end of the 2026 season, with Rafael Camara set to replace him. However, the situation escalated in Mexico City when the team decided to withdraw the Frenchman from the remainder of the weekend, handing his seat to Ryo Hirakawa.
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The decision followed a disagreement on Friday evening, although the precise circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear. Ocon subsequently issued a statement addressing allegations of physical violence, acknowledging that a difference of opinion led to a discussion involving several parties.
Photo: Race Pictures
However, the 30-year-old categorically denied that the disagreement involved any physical confrontation. He also condemned violence in all its forms, stressing that disagreements should be handled professionally and respectfully. The Frenchman urged people to avoid further speculation while the matter is being addressed, adding that additional updates would be communicated in due course.
"Following the recent decision from Haas F1 Team confirming that I will not be participating in this weekend’s Mexico City Grand Prix, I wish to formally address some media reports and speculation surrounding the situation.
"Last night, a difference in viewpoints led to a discussion with the parties involved. Whilst I acknowledge that this took place, I categorically reject any reports or allegations suggesting that any form of physical violence was used to resolve any differences of any nature."
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Panis, meanwhile, made his position clear by questioning the motivations behind Ocon's dismissal rather than commenting directly on the allegations. The former Ligier driver, who famously won the 1996 Monaco Grand Prix, also offered a personal message of encouragement to his compatriot.
"Don't give up, my little one, you will bounce back and they won't bite your fingers," Panis concluded.
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