Esteban Ocon to Haas? What’s Next for Formula 1 driver market amid Canadian Grand Prix drama

As the excitement of the Canadian Grand Prix unfolds, the Formula 1 driver market is buzzing with speculation and potential moves for the 2025 season. Teams are in talks with several high-profile drivers, shaping what promises to be a dynamic and unpredictable driver lineup shortly.

The driver market buzzed more after rainy FP1 and FP2 sessions in Montreal. Starting with Haas the team principal Ayao Komatsu has revealed that the team is seriously considering Esteban Ocon for the 2025 season.

Ocon, who is set to leave Alpine, brings a wealth of experience that Komatsu values highly. “He’s got a lot of experience. He’s a race winner, he’s got podium finishes, scored many points and worked with a few different teams," Komatsu told Sky Sports F1.

Also Read: How a fear of legal suit saved Esteban Ocon?

At 27, Ocon is still relatively young, and his dedication and work ethic make him an attractive candidate for Haas. Recently he has been facing a lot of scrutiny at Alpine and it will be a great move for him to go with Haas. “I’m talking with several of the current F1 drivers, experienced guys, as well as some of the young F1 drivers. So he’s one of the several that I am considering seriously,” Komatsu added.

Toto Wolff hints Lewis Hamilton’s successor at Mercedes

Meanwhile, Mercedes is hinting at significant changes as well. Team principal Toto Wolff has suggested that young Italian driver Kimi Antonelli might be the one to replace Lewis Hamilton when the British driver moves to Ferrari in 2025.

“We just want to concentrate on Kimi, that is our future, young drivers,” Wolff told Sky Germany, emphasizing Mercedes' commitment to nurturing young talent. This move seemingly puts an end to speculations linking Carlos Sainz with Mercedes, as Wolff stated, “We want to commit to that, to young drivers and that is what we’ve told Carlos.”

Where will Carlos Sainz land in 2025?

However, Carlos Sainz's future remains a hot topic. With Sergio Perez securing a new two-year contract with Red Bull, Sainz is exploring other options, and Williams has emerged as a potential destination. Williams boss James Vowles has expressed keen interest in bringing Sainz on board.

“Williams isn’t the same Williams it was three years ago and by the definition of the fact that we are even talking to Carlos shows that we’ve changed our approach,” Vowles commented after practice sessions.

Also Read: What's next for Carlos Sainz? Explore uncertainties of his Formula 1 future

He emphasized the team’s ambition to compete at the highest level again: “We want two world-class drivers to be a part of our stable going forward. We want the world to realise that we’re here and we’re serious. We’re investing what it takes to be back at the front.”

As the Canadian Grand Prix continues, the driver market developments are adding an extra layer of intrigue to the championship. With teams like Haas, Mercedes, and Williams making bold moves, the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet in Formula 1. Fans will be watching closely to see how these negotiations unfold and what impact they will have on the grid dynamics in the coming years.