Haas Names Ryo Hirakawa for F1 Debut in Mexico, Replacing Esteban Ocon

MEXICO CITY — Ryo Hirakawa is set to make his Formula 1 debut with Haas in Mexico on Sunday, following an unexpected announcement on Saturday that he would take the place of veteran driver Esteban Ocon.

This change comes during an F1 weekend, with Hirakawa participating in third practice and qualifying on Saturday, alongside teammate Oliver Bearman. Haas did not provide a reason for Ocon's replacement, clarifying that it was not due to illness, despite other drivers, including championship leader Kimi Antonelli, experiencing health issues this week.

Hirakawa, a former winner at the Le Mans 24-hour race for Toyota, had already driven in first practice for Haas on Friday, finishing 15th fastest before Ocon returned to the car and achieved 13th fastest in the second practice. Haas has not confirmed who will race in Brazil next week, and Ocon is expected to leave the team at the end of the season, having expressed a desire to remain in F1, potentially as a reserve driver for another team.