Haas has confirmed Esteban Ocon and Ryo Hirakawa will drive for the team in the Formula 1 post-season test in Abu Dhabi.
Ocon signed a multi-year deal with Haas during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend in July and his participation in the test has led to unprecedented action.
To release him from his Alpine contract, the Frenchman is forgoing driving duties in this weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and shall be replaced by the Anglo-French team’s 2025 recruit, Jack Doohan.
As the team approached severing ties with Ocon early, Alpine Team Principal Oliver Oakes said “I think you could say from Esteban’s side it’s good to move on early. I think it suits everybody.”
That leaves Ocon ample time to prepare for his post-season testing debut with his new employer, Haas.
Ocon’s choice to join Haas was down to being “convinced” by Team Principal Ayoa Komatsu and his faith was reinforced upon the team signing a technical alliance with Toyota.
“He didn’t specifically talk about [Toyota], but he really told me what his plan was to take this team to the next level and help on the things that the team have the chance to improve on” Ocon said last month.
“He convinced me back then and it reinforces me to clearly trust him for the future. I think it’s exciting times for the teams ahead.”
Ryo Hirakawa early sign of Haas, Toyota relationship bearing fruit
Haas’ alliance with Toyota goes beyond mere technical expertise with the Japanese manufacturer committing to providing its drivers for testing duties.
That is bearing fruit for the first time thanks to Hirakawa filling Haas’ rookie requirements for the post-season test.
Hirakawa is a prominent member of Toyota Gazoo Racing‘s Hypercar efforts in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
The Japanese driver is a Le Mans winner and twice champion in FIA WEC.
He will have a busy time in Abu Dhabi, with his commitments as a McLaren Reserve Driver meaning he is also driving the MCL38 during FP1 of the Abu Dhabi GP.
READ MORE – Esteban Ocon admits Toyota tie-up has ‘reinforced’ his belief in Haas F1 move
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