Haas Replaces Esteban Ocon with Ryo Hirakawa for Mexico GP

The Haas Formula 1 team has announced the replacement of Esteban Ocon with reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa for the remainder of the Mexico Grand Prix weekend.

Hirakawa will team up with Oliver Bearman for the final practice, qualifying, and the race, having previously driven Ocon's VF-26 during Friday's practice session. Ocon returned for the second practice but faced controversy after a disagreement with his race engineer regarding tire strategy.

This marks Hirakawa's Formula 1 race debut at the age of 32, following a successful career in Japan and the World Endurance Championship. Ocon's replacement comes amid a challenging period for him at Haas, where he is expected to be succeeded by Rafael Camara in the future.