Kada Sárközi joined GPblog as an editor ahead of the 2023 Formula 1 season. He graduated with a BA in Sports Journalism in the UK and has covered Grands Prix and other F1 events live.
Esteban Ocon has thanked his fans for the support he received after he was let go by Haas.
After Friday's running at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Ocon was replaced by Ryo Hirakawa for the remainder of the weekend. Then, last Tuesday, it was announced that the Frenchman would not return to drive for the American team in the 2026 season. At the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, he was replaced by Rafael Camara, who will take up a full-time seat with the team in 2027.
Ocon shares new message on social media
In his latest post on Instagram, the French driver thanked everyone for their support.
Hi everyone,- Esteban Ocon
I wanted to say a heartfelt thank you for all your messages. Your support means a great deal to me.
To the fans, colleagues and former colleagues who have taken the time to reach out as well, I’m truly grateful.
My love for this sport remains as strong as ever, and I’m grateful to share that passion with so many of you.
Thank you for your kindness and encouragement.
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Toto Wolff understands Haas' decision
In Brazil, the Mercedes team boss, who has known the Frenchman for a long time, also shared his thoughts on the matter.
He said: "I think at the end it came to the point where Ayao needed to represent the team and protect the team from certain rhetoric. And on the other side, Esteban felt personally that he wasn't wrong in the things he said. And you've got to respect that at the end, the team calls the shots. The team principal needs to decide when it's enough, and that is what Ayao did."
Alan Permane, Racing Bulls' team principal added: "We don't know what's going on, and I'm certainly not going to speculate on that. But I think he's had a very good career, and I don't say it's over. He's had a very good career in Formula 1, a very strong career, and he's a quick guy. I just wish him well for the future."
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Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur remained more cautious. He said: "Now, to comment on what's happened in another team, it's difficult. I have enough to do with my guys, and I don't know what's happened between Ayao and Haas, the team and the driver. I don't want to make any comment. For sure, it's a shame for Esteban because I think he's a pure competitor. He put a lot of energy all over the season to be in F1, and we need to have huge respect for this. Now, I won't make any comment on the situation."
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