Ryō Hirakawa will make his F1 debut this weekend at the Mexico City Grand Prix for Haas, replacing Esteban Ocon for the remainder of the event. The team announced the change on social media Sunday morning without explanation.
Hirakawa finished 15th overall and fifth among rookies in Free Practice 1. He has served as Haas' reserve driver since 2025 and is a two-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner. At the time of his debut, Hirakawa becomes the oldest driver to start their first F1 race since Andre Lotterer in the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix.
Haas provided no statement on why Ocon was removed and said "no further statements will be made at this time." The paddock has seen two other drivers sidelined this weekend. Kimi Antonelli stepped away with a viral bug, and Sergio Perez sat out Friday.
Hirakawa faces a scheduling conflict if he continues in the Haas seat through the season. He competes in the World Endurance Championship, driving the No. 8 TR010 that leads the championship. WEC races at Monza next weekend, the same week as the F1 Brazil Grand Prix.
Hirakawa was previously shortlisted for Ocon's 2027 seat before that role went to Rafael Câmara.