Komatsu was unaware of Alpine’s blackmail against Ocon, confirming a verbal agreement with Oakes, but was surprised by Alpine’s sudden shift.
Ayao Komatsu revealed that Haas F1 was unaware that Alpine F1’s management intended to use Esteban Ocon’s test with Haas next Tuesday as leverage to secure his replacement at a season-end race. The director of the American team explained that initially, it was simply an agreement without any counterpart.
“I spoke with Ollie [Oakes] during one of the F1 commission meetings… long before I confirmed it,” Komatsu explained. “He told me everything was fine, that there was no issue. That Ocon could drive the car. We wondered what we would do about the suit, and why not use a white one?”
“We thought it would be the simplest solution. And that was it. I’m pretty straightforward in this sense, what happens internally at Alpine has nothing to do with me. So from my side, Ollie gave me his word, and that was enough.”
Komatsu believed the verbal agreement with Oliver Oakes was sufficient, and he was surprised to see that Alpine had changed its mind: “I don’t know, honestly. Whatever happens at Alpine, it’s none of my business internally.”
“As far as I’m concerned, the last time I spoke to Ollie, he was happy that Esteban could drive for us during the post-season test, and he didn’t say anything else since. If something changed, I expect him to come and talk to me about it. But he hasn’t done that. So, he gave me his word. That was enough for me.”
The Japanese manager is still pleased to have signed Ocon for 2025, as he has known the French driver since his time at Lotus. But he also recalled Ocon’s comments earlier this season, when Alpine was struggling, and praised the driver’s enthusiasm.
“I think he has always been highly motivated anyway. It’s one of the main reasons I signed him. He’s a very determined character, and his work ethic is strong – whether the car is fast or slow.”
“At the start of the season, when Alpine was completely off the pace, I think he was still putting in a lot of effort to motivate the team and try to help it improve. I really respect that. So, I don’t think motivation has ever been his issue.”
Asked about Alpine’s decision to replace Ocon with rookie Jack Doohan, while both teams are battling for sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship, Komatsu expressed surprise but refrained from commenting.
“I wouldn’t have done it, but again, whatever they do is none of my business. I’m not here to comment on what they’re doing. I’m sure they have their own reasons, and it’s not for me to say anything.”
Komatsu Reveals Verbal Deal on Ocon, Surprised by Alpine Komatsu Reveals Verbal Deal on Ocon, Surprised by Alpine
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