Esteban Ocon, driver for the Haas team, is not afraid to talk about his past performances. In response to comments from his director Ayao Komatsu, he states that the responsibilities for the 2025 season are shared. A discourse that is both frank and optimistic as he prepares for a new year in Formula 1.
High Expectations for Ocon
It all started when Ayao Komatsu, the director of the Haas team, expressed his expectations for Esteban Ocon at the beginning of the month. As the 2025 season approaches, he clearly indicated that he hoped for more from the French driver. In a meeting with the media, he did not hesitate to be frank, stating: “If we look only at the sporting results, without going into details, clearly, no one is satisfied with Esteban’s sporting results last year.”
A bit harsh, isn’t it? However, he also pointed out that the Frenchman was facing a rookie teammate, Oliver Bearman. “An incredible rookie for sure, but Esteban has ten years of F1 behind him,” he added. A way to establish the difference in experience, but also to put pressure on Ocon.
A Double-Edged Analysis
Komatsu’s words were strong, but he quickly nuanced his comments. “Obviously, it’s not entirely his fault; it’s 50-50.” The team, according to him, also had its share of responsibility. “We couldn’t give him a car he was comfortable with, especially in qualifying.” That gives food for thought.
In a recent interview in the Bahrain paddock, Ocon confirmed this shared view of responsibilities. “I am completely focused on this season. But since you asked me, I will answer you,” he stated. For him, the main thing is that the team acknowledges its faults. “Ayao said it was 50-50.”
The driver emphasized the technical difficulties he faced. “I had this issue with front wheel locking, this instability problem.” It wasn’t simply a matter of confidence or adaptation. The two cars were not on equal footing. “There was clearly something wrong.”
The Turning Point in Abu Dhabi
Esteban Ocon driving the Haas VF-26 during the Bahrain 2026 tests.
Ocon recalls a key moment from his past season: the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. “It wasn’t going well until Friday in Abu Dhabi,” he confides. That weekend was a turning point, where he went from a feeling of disbelief to palpable euphoria. “I’m not going to go into the details of what we changed in Abu Dhabi, as that’s just for us. But whatever we changed, the car suddenly came alive.”
He mentions a regained performance: “I was half a second away from where I needed to be on Friday. And then, Saturday morning, we achieved the performance we needed to achieve.” A seventh place in the race in the end, a result he wished to see more often throughout the season.
Aspirations for the 2026 Season
Ocon seems determined to turn the page and learn from last year. “So we are all working together, always trying to do our best.” He mentions a team spirit that needs to intensify this year. With clear goals in sight, he hopes the team will do better to avoid past mistakes.
Deep down, Ocon remains optimistic. He looks forward to seeing the results of the changes made and working on his confidence behind the wheel. “And, of course, last year is now behind us.” A phrase that could serve as a mantra for the entire team.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes are on this Ocon-Bearman duo. Past performances are forgotten, but the pressure remains. The future is uncertain, but one thing is for sure: Esteban Ocon is ready to take on the challenge.
