
Ocon exits Haas as FIA flags Sepang heat and Mercedes unveils major upgrade
Esteban Ocon has confirmed his departure from Haas at the end of the 2026 season, citing a lack of future grid opportunities. The FIA has declared a heat hazard for the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang, Malaysia, while Mercedes prepares a significant upgrade for its W17 car. Ocon’s exit follows a period of underperformance compared to teammate Oliver Bearman, and several drivers are now being considered as his replacement for 2027.