Esteban Ocon Set to Replace Kevin Magnussen; Team Undergoes Major Restructuring
In a dramatic turn of events for the Haas F1 Team, Esteban Ocon is poised to join the American outfit for the 2025 Formula 1 season, displacing current driver Kevin Magnussen. Reports emerged during the British Grand Prix qualifying day, with BBC Sport confirming Ocon’s contract signing ahead of an official announcement expected prior to the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The decision marks a significant shift for Haas under new leadership, as Ayao Komatsu takes over from former boss Guenther Steiner. Steiner, known for his candid remarks, had publicly expressed doubts about Magnussen’s performance compared to his teammate Nico Hulkenberg. Hulkenberg, meanwhile, has already secured a seat with Sauber, soon to be rebranded as Audi, for the upcoming season.
Adding to the intrigue, Steiner revealed insights into Magnussen’s uncertain future within the team. Speaking on the Red Flags podcast, Steiner disclosed that Magnussen had reached out to him directly, seeking contact information for other team principals, signaling the Dane’s exploration of options outside of Haas.
“What he wants to do with that, I don’t know,” Steiner commented wryly during the podcast. “But that was the last text he sent to me.”
The situation is compounded by Magnussen’s unconventional approach to contract negotiations, as he reportedly does not employ an agent to handle discussions with teams—a rarity in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
Haas F1’s restructuring efforts also include welcoming young talent Oliver Bearman to their ranks, replacing the departing Hulkenberg. Bearman’s ascent underscores the team’s commitment to nurturing fresh talent amidst broader changes in the Formula 1 landscape.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes are on Haas F1 and their evolving roster, poised to navigate a new era under Komatsu’s stewardship while accommodating the shifting dynamics of driver line-ups in the sport.
