The prospect of Esteban Ocon joining Haas is more likely for 2020 than midway through this season, InsideRacing understands.
On Thursday, a Reddit user cited his own paddock source to suggest the American outfit is pushing to sign the Mercedes reserve in place of Romain Grosjean, who has only scored two points so far this season.
This after Haas endured their worst weekend in Formula 1, as off-track distractions from title sponsor Rich Energy combined with Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen colliding on Lap 1.
Though the contact appeared minimal, it was enough for both cars to retire and, according to the post from F1ThrowawayF1, that was enough for team boss Guenther Steiner to ask owner Gene Haas for permission to fire one driver.
“Word in the paddock is that they are looking at Ocon to replace Grosjean. If possible, by the next Grand Prix,” the post continued.
“That’s all I can say for now. If this turns out to be correct, I’ll be back with more.”
Also Read:
- Ocon ‘will be driving at Mercedes in 2020’ – report
- Haas boss furious as Grosjean denies blame for contact with Magnussen
- Ocon will leave Mercedes if he doesn’t replace Bottas in 2020
The user tried to validate the claim by insisting admins for the Reddit page had been informed of his source and allowed for the post to be published.
InsideRacing has been told, however, that a mid-season move for Ocon is highly unlikely at this point and that Grosjean should see out this season.
But, should Mercedes retain Valtteri Bottas and Renault keep Nico Hulkenberg, chances are the Frenchman will be top of the list to replace his fellow countryman for next season.