Esteban Ocon has denied claims that his dismissal by Haas at the Mexico City Grand Prix was caused by an argument with team principal Ayao Komatsu turning physical. The 30-year-old French driver released a statement addressing the incident following media reports regarding his departure from the Formula 1 team.
Ocon Denies Violence and Addresses Disagreement
In a statement published on social media, Ocon acknowledged that differing perspectives resulted in a discussion with the people involved. However, as reported by BBC Sport, he firmly dismissed any claims that physical violence occurred during the disagreement. He stated that he strongly condemns violence in all forms and believes disagreements require professionalism, respect, and mutual understanding. He also requested that people avoid speculation while the situation is handled, noting that further updates will be shared later.
Ocon’s statement came in response to a report by the French publication L’Equipe, which suggested a meeting between the driver and Komatsu ended abruptly and potentially physically.
Team Disputes and Roster Changes
Ocon’s benching for the remainder of the Mexico weekend followed an on-track dispute with race engineer Laura Mueller concerning tyre selection during Friday’s second practice session. Mueller radioed to inform Ocon that the team changed plans regarding the soft-compound tyre and he would instead run the medium compound. Ocon responded over the radio telling the team not to do that and insisting he wanted to run the soft tyres. Haas has not provided any further details about events following that session, stating only that Ocon was dropped for the weekend’s race.
Haas previously announced last month that Ocon will leave the team at the conclusion of the season. He is set to be replaced by Brazilian driver Rafael Camara, who leads the Formula 2 championship and belongs to the Ferrari driver development programme. Neither Haas nor representatives from Ocon’s management have addressed whether Ocon will return to drive for the team at any of the remaining races this year.
