Ocon unexpectedly replaced at Haas for the rest of Mexican GP weekend
· Yahoo Sports
Esteban Ocon was replaced by reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa for the rest of the Formula One Mexican Grand Prix weekend in an unexpected move by his Haas team.
The announcement came in a statement on Saturday, ahead of third practice and qualifying later. Ryo had already participated in first practice on Friday.
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"The Japanese driver will partner teammate Ollie Bearman through final practice and qualifying on Saturday and Sunday's 71-lap grand prix - marking Ryo's Formula 1 race debut," Haas said.
The team didn't explain the reason why Ocon was being replaced and said "no further statements will be made at this time."
According to media reports, Ocon isn't injured nor ill. The driver initially did not make any comment.
Ocon's contract with Haas is valid until the end of the season. The team had already announced that Brazilian Rafael Camara will drive alongside Bearman next year.