Ayao Komatsu says Haas will decide its 2027 driver line-up within the next couple of weeks

Haas has yet to confirm its Formula 1 driver line-up for 2027, but Team Principal Ayao Komatsu said an announcement is expected “within the next couple of weeks”. Speaking during Thursday’s press conference, Komatsu stressed that no decision has been made yet regarding Esteban Ocon’s future, even as speculation has continued throughout the season about whether the French driver will be retained.

Komatsu addressed Ocon’s comments made ahead of this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Ocon said he was “definitely a free agent for next year”. Komatsu’s response was that Haas still has not finalised any option for Ocon, explaining that drivers are subject to a closing point during the year for decisions on contract options.

When asked for timing, Komatsu said the team has completed its evaluation work and is now waiting to summarise its findings, hold discussions internally with team owner Gene Haas, and then make the final decision. He framed the decision as a process still underway rather than a confirmation that any candidate has already been selected.

While Ollie Bearman is expected to remain with Haas for 2027, the remaining seat is described as open to several candidates. According to the report, Haas has assessed potential options including reigning Formula 2 champion Leonardo Fornaroli, F2 race winner and F3 champion Rafael Camara, as well as Haas reserve drivers Jack Doohan and Ryo Hirakawa, all of whom have tested with the team in recent weeks.

Komatsu also outlined what Haas is looking for as it finalises its choice, emphasising the need for raw speed and fast pace, alongside strong team integration—particularly for a smaller team—where motivation, character, and the ability to drive the group forward are important considerations.

Written by Vancouver Television Sports Desk