Esteban Ocon joins Haas F1 amid exits and disappointments in the racing world.
Esteban Ocon has reportedly signed a contract to continue his Formula 1 career with Haas from 2025, according to multiple sources at the British Grand Prix.
This weekend, the small American team announced that 18-year-old rookie Oliver Bearman would replace Nico Hulkenberg, who is moving to Audi-Sauber.
Team principal Ayao Komatsu denied having faced significant pressure from the team’s technical partner Ferrari to take British driver Bearman, supported by Maranello, for 2025.
“The decision is ours. It’s not as if Ferrari forced us, not at all.”
“Of course, we’re aware that Ollie is backed by Ferrari, so there’s the financial aspect, but that’s not all. It’s his speed, work ethic, attitude, how he communicates with engineers, how he understands the entire program, what we look for in a team, and how he adjusts his approach.”
“Now that we’ve taken Ollie on as a rookie, we’ll try to appoint someone with decent F1 experience.”
Kevin Magnussen, aged 31, actually has more experience than the Alpine driver, but many signs indicate that the Dane has been exploring options outside of F1 for 2025 for some time.
Another option for Haas F1 was Valtteri Bottas, who is believed to be closer to joining Williams.
The Finn admits he is disappointed to have seemingly been excluded from Sauber’s plans for its future with Audi.
“I don’t want this issue to make headlines, but yes, with everything that was said last year, the team’s goal for the drivers was that I would be the first to sign a contract. The team has spoken to everyone about the other seat.”
Bottas, aged 34, insists he still has options in F1 but has also been contacted by Indycar teams.
“There have been inquiries from many series throughout my career. I wouldn’t say that all this waiting right now is frustrating—it’s just part of the game. Things will work out over time.”
Magnussen Exits F1 Bottas Disheartened by Audi Move. Magnussen Exits F1 Bottas Disheartened by Audi Move
- You may also like>Decade Since Susie Wolff: Women’s F1 Gap Remains
- Following us on>Facebook and>Twitter
