What happened: Haas confirmed Esteban Ocon will leave at the end of the 2026 season. Ocon said in Malaysia his focus is staying in Formula 1 and finding a solution for 2027. He pointed to recent on-track form as proof he deserves to stay on the grid.

Why it matters: Ocon hits free agency for 2027 with few seats open. The split ends two Haas seasons after five years at Alpine. His 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix win from eighth remains the signature result.

By the numbers: Baku 2026: winner George Russell, Ocon P8 for Haas. 2021 Hungarian GP: Ocon won from P8 on the grid.

What to watch: Watch Malaysia for another result to bolster his bid for a 2027 seat.

Sources