Haas Confirms Ryo Hirakawa’s Formula 1 Race Debut at Mexico City GP
Haas confirmed that Japanese reserve driver Ryo Hirakawa would replace Esteban Ocon for the remainder of the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, giving the 32-year-old his first Formula 1 race start.
Hirakawa drove the VF-26 in Friday’s opening practice session, finishing 15th, before the team announced the driver change on Saturday 31 October. He was set to partner Oliver Bearman for final practice, qualifying and Sunday’s Grand Prix.
The Japanese driver has won the FIA World Endurance Championship twice and the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Toyota. Haas did not disclose the reason for the substitution in its announcement.