(Motorsport-Total.com) – The future of Esteban Ocon at Haas is once again in focus. Former Haas team principal Günther Steiner assumes that the Frenchman will leave the US team after the 2026 Formula 1 season. As a possible successor, he brings Ferrari junior Rafael Camara into play.
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In an episode of the podcast The Red Flags Podcast, Steiner gives a clear assessment of Ocon’s current form ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix. The 29-year-old has so far been clearly beaten this season by his teammate Oliver Bearman, who is in his second year in Formula 1.
“I think Ollie is doing a very good job, and with Esteban it’s just like this: This is the maximum he can deliver,” says Steiner. “The difference is so big. I think this is currently the biggest difference between teammates in the championship. Especially in qualifying.”
“If you also look at the time difference between the two, it is always huge. That’s why I don’t think he has a future there. I think this is his last year there.”
Steiner brings Ferrari junior Camara into play
If Ocon actually leaves Haas, the question arises about a possible successor. Recently, candidates included McLaren reserve Leonardo Fornaroli, Formula 2 driver Rafael Camara, and Yuki Tsunoda.
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However, Steiner considers Camara the most likely solution. The Brazilian is part of Ferrari’s junior program and would therefore fit well into the concept from his point of view.
“I think Yuki will be difficult because he is clearly a Honda driver due to his connection to Honda,” explains Steiner. “I don’t think he will switch to Toyota. I would say Camara.”
Ocon remains reserved
When asked about his future, Ocon did not want to make any concrete statements at the media day in Hungary. The Frenchman only confirmed that there is currently nothing to announce. At the same time, he hinted that the summer break is likely to be “quite busy.”
After ten races of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Ocon is 17th in the drivers’ standings with three points. Teammate Bearman is in 13th place with 18 points and has so far clearly outperformed the Frenchman in both qualifying and race results.
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