Ocon denies reports of physical altercation behind dropping
Esteban Ocon has denied reports that a disagreement with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu became physical, after the team stood him down for the Mexico City Grand Prix. He said a difference of views led to a discussion, but rejected any allegation that violence was involved.
The decision followed a dispute with race engineer Laura Mueller over tyre choice during Friday practice: Ocon wanted soft tyres, while the team changed the plan to medium tyres. Haas has not explained what happened after the session or said whether Ocon will race again this season; he is due to leave at the end of the year, with Rafael Camara set to replace him.
In short
- Ocon denies that a disagreement with Haas became physical.
- He was stood down after a dispute over tyre choice.
- Haas has not said whether he will race again this season.
Explained simply
Esteban Ocon is a Formula One driver, and Haas is the team he currently races for. Each team has a principal who oversees its operation and engineers who help drivers make decisions during race weekends, including which tyres to use.
Tyres affect how quickly a car can go and how long they last, so drivers and teams may disagree about which type to use. Ocon is due to leave Haas at the end of the year, with Rafael Camara expected to take his place.
Americas Motorsport Sport World