Haas Drop Ocon as Camara Gets Home Debut in Brazil

Haas have dropped Esteban Ocon for the rest of the Formula 1 season, bringing an abrupt end to the Frenchman's time with the American team. The decision, announced on Tuesday, follows Ocon being benched midway through the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, when reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa replaced him from final practice. For this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Haas will hand a debut to Brazilian rookie Rafael Camara, who had already been signed to join the team from 2027. The 21-year-old Ferrari academy driver and Formula 2 championship leader will partner Ollie Bearman at Interlagos, making his first Grand Prix appearance in front of his home crowd. Team principal Ayao Komatsu said Haas believed the change was in the team's best interests. Hirakawa, who scored points with 10th place in Mexico, is unavailable in Brazil because of a prior commitment to Toyota's World Endurance Championship finale, where he remains in title contention. Haas have not yet confirmed who will drive the second car at the final three rounds in Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi, with reports suggesting a combination of Camara and Hirakawa.