Esteban Ocon took to Twitter to respond to growing Formula 1 rumours after his surprise replacement at Haas for the Mexican Grand Prix weekend.
Ocon wasn’t in his Haas F1 car for the first practice of the weekend, with Ryo Hirakawa completing his rookie FP1 session alongside a slew of young drivers for other teams.
However, the Frenchman returned to the car for the second practice session. During this session, things became heated between Ocon and the team, with frustrated exchanges over the radio. The argument was about which tyres the team wanted Ocon to go out on, with the two butting heads over the option.
Not long after the session, Haas announced that Hirakawa would be replacing Ocon for the rest of the weekend. They offered no explanation for the replacement, only confirming that it wasn’t due to illness.
Rumours began to grow in the paddock that the disagreement had become physical between the drivers and team members, and that Mexico would mark the end of Ocon’s time with the team.
Ocon’s statement
It was at this stage that Ocon released his own statement on Twitter saying: “Following the recent decision from Haas F1 Team confirming that I will not be participating in this weekend’s Mexico City Grand Prix, I wish to formally address some media reports and speculation surrounding the situation.
“Last night, a difference in viewpoints led to a discussion with the parties involved. Whilst I acknowledge that this took place, I categorically reject any reports or allegations suggesting that any form of physical violence was used to resolve any differences of any nature.
“I strongly condemn violence in all its forms and firmly believe that disagreements should always be handled with professionalism, respect, and mutual understanding.
“I kindly ask that speculation be avoided while the matter is being addressed.
“Further updates will be communicated in due course.”
There is still a lot of confusion about whether Ocon will return for Brazil or whether Jack Doohan, Rafa Camara, or Ryo Hirakawa will be racing for the team. So far, Haas has refrained from commenting further.
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