Lewis Hamilton has change into the newest driver to throw his backing behind Esteban Ocon after Haas confirmed that he’ll go away the workforce on the finish of the 2026 Formulation 1 season.
After being on the playing cards for quite a lot of months following a tough season, Haas confirmed forward of Sepang that Ocon will go away the workforce, changed by Rafael Camara.
Given the lateness of the season, and the dearth of seats obtainable, it’s possible that Ocon will face a 12 months on the sidelines for the second time in his profession.
This led to Ocon revealing that the one driver to achieve out and present sympathy along with his scenario was Lance Stroll.
A brand new identify has now been added to the Frenchman’s defenders: Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion revealed he spoke to Ocon in individual however didn’t reveal element of the dialog.
“I’m not going to say what I mentioned as a result of it’s personal and I didn’t textual content him,” he confirmed to media, together with Motorsport Week.
“I didn’t know concerning the textual content scenario, however I assumed it could be higher to see him in individual. I feel he’s one of many nicest guys right here.
Lewis Hamilton sympathises with Esteban Ocon struggles
Hamilton then spoke of his disappointment at seeing Ocon go away, however believes alternative awaits the Frenchman in 2027.
“He’s at all times been so charming younger lad,” he mentioned.
“I don’t know the way his setting is or what his challenges have been. I assume it’s in all probability not been straightforward over time, however I feel he stays constructive.
“It’s simply unhappy to see him go away as a result of I feel he’s in a really gifted setting. I feel he deserves to be right here.
“However when one door closes, it opens up new alternatives for one thing even higher.I do know no matter else he’s acquired to do, he’s going to do it. He’s an important character.”
Hamilton’s endorsement of Ocon will give the Frenchman a morale booster forward of this weekend, however his closing vacation spot post-2026 stays a thriller.
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