F1: Haas 2027 seat candidates named as Esteban Ocon confirmed yet to receive extension offer

By Vancouver Television Sports Desk

Haas has not confirmed its 2027 driver line-up, and Esteban Ocon told Formula1.com he has “yet to receive an offer” of a contract extension and is a “free agent” for next year.

Ocon’s teammate Ollie Bearman has also not been officially announced by Haas, though Formula1.com said he is viewed as the more likely driver to stay as the American team prepares for 2027.

Formula1.com reported that Ocon remains an option, but cited sources saying he is expected to leave Haas when his current deal ends “at the end of this season.” The same report said a reserve role may be more likely for Ocon because of limited opportunities elsewhere on the 2027 grid.

In that context, Formula1.com identified several alternatives, with Ferrari junior Rafael Camara described as the leading candidate for Ocon’s seat. The outlet said Camara’s junior-category progress, current Formula 2 position and Test of Previous Cars appearances in Haas machinery have all helped his case. It also said Ferrari, Haas’s long-time partner since the team entered Formula 1 in 2016, is “very keen to test his potential in Formula 1,” and writer Lawrence Barretto called Camara the “overwhelming favourite.”

Other names mentioned include Leonardo Fornaroli, who completed a TPC run earlier this year and, Formula1.com said, has also been backed through McLaren’s development programme and a reserve role for 2026. Yuki Tsunoda was also discussed as a possible option based on his recent Racing Bulls opportunities. Ryo Hirakawa was presented as a regular Haas test and reserve driver linked with Toyota, though Formula1.com said he is “not expected” to be promoted. Jack Doohan was also listed as Haas’s current reserve after moving from Alpine for 2026, but Formula1.com said he is “not believed to be at the top of the shortlist.”