Ocon defends relationship with Haas team principal Komatsu

– Following rumors of a possible early split from Haas, Esteban Ocon has strongly denied the related speculations. The Frenchman calls reports of a dispute with team principal Ayao Komatsu and an allegedly imminent exit from Haas “complete bullshit”.

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After the Miami Grand Prix, reports surfaced on social networks and various media platforms suggesting a rift between Ocon and Komatsu. It was also claimed that Haas was already planning a driver change.

Before the Canadian Grand Prix, Ocon made it clear that the rumors were completely fabricated. He especially emphasized his good relationship with Komatsu, whom he has known since his time as a development driver at Lotus in 2014.

Ocon firmly denies rumors of Haas exit

“Honestly, that’s completely made up and total bullshit,” says Ocon. “I also joined this team because I have known Ayao for so long. I have a great relationship with him. It has always been that way.”

The Frenchman further explains that although the start of the 2026 season was difficult, the team understands the unfortunate circumstances. Several safety car phases and other incidents prevented better results.

“I feel good and very comfortable in the team,” explains Ocon. “We have done good work in the past races. At the beginning, we had some bad luck with safety cars and such things. But the pace and the foundation of our work are right.”

Ocon surprised by the dynamics on social networks

Ocon was particularly puzzled by the dynamics the rumors developed in a short time. Even within his circle, the reports raised questions.

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“It’s crazy how it all escalated,” he says. “The topic suddenly became so big that fans picked it up and commented on it. And of course, it was spread further on all those lousy social media sites.”

According to Ocon, there were indeed talks with Komatsu after the Miami weekend, but these were completely normal and focused solely on the sporting situation of the team.

Criticism of the consequences of unfounded speculation

“We sat down with Ayao,” explains Ocon. “But we talked about many different things. About how we can improve, how we can get stronger, and what was going on with the car over the weekend. It was just a normal conversation.”

Furthermore, the Haas driver criticizes the impact such speculation has on drivers, families, and sponsors. The spread of unfounded claims can cause significant damage within a few days.

“It’s disappointing to see how much damage can be done to a driver’s reputation in two or three days,” says Ocon. “Even though there is nothing to the story at all. And the people who invent such stories just get away with it without consequences.”

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