Haas confirm early Ocon debut after Alpine exit

The Haas F1 team has confirmed Esteban Ocon will make his debut for the squad next week at the post-season test in Abu Dhabi.

A one-day test on December 10th will take place at the Yas Marina Circuit following the season finale this weekend.

The outing often creates the opportunity for drivers who are switching teams to get a headstart in their new environment ahead of the following season.

Haas announced in July earlier this year that it had signed Ocon for the 2025 campaign, with the Frenchman set to partner Oliver Bearman.

Ocon’s tenure with Alpine came to an early end as the team confirmed he departed the squad after the Qatar Grand Prix last weekend, with Jack Doohan stepping in for Abu Dhabi.

However, Ocon will not have to wait long to jump back behind the wheel of an F1 car as he will partake in the post-season test with Haas.

The 28-year-old will be joined at the test by rookie Rio Hirakawa, who is part of the Toyota GAZOO Racing outfit that Haas announced a partnership with earlier this year.

Hirakawa will make his competitive F1 debut this weekend during the first free practice session in Abu Dhabi, stepping behind the McLaren MCL38.