Ryo Hirakawa is set to make his Formula 1® race debut with Haas during the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend, stepping in to replace Esteban Ocon for the remainder of the event. This change was confirmed by Haas on Saturday, October 31, 2026, marking a significant moment for the Japanese driver as he moves from reserve duties to a full race seat for the weekend.
Hirakawa has been Haas’s reserve driver since 2025 and took part in the first practice session on Friday, where he finished 15th overall. His experience outside Formula 1® is notable, having won the FIA World Endurance Championship twice in 2022 and 2023, as well as the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2022 with Toyota GAZOO Racing. This weekend, he will share the garage with teammate Ollie Bearman as he continues through final practice, qualifying, and the 71-lap race on Sunday.
The announcement came without further details on the reasons behind Esteban Ocon’s replacement for the weekend or any statements from the team or drivers. Hirakawa’s participation in the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend represents a rare opportunity for a reserve driver to step into the spotlight during a race weekend, offering him a chance to gain valuable experience in the top tier of motorsport.
Hirakawa’s background in endurance racing and his success with Toyota GAZOO Racing highlight his versatility and skill behind the wheel. Transitioning to Formula 1® racing presents a new challenge, as the demands and style of driving differ significantly from endurance events. His performance in Free Practice 1 showed promise as he adapted to the Haas car and the unique conditions of the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit.
For Haas, this driver change means fielding a lineup of Ollie Bearman and Ryo Hirakawa for the remainder of the Mexico City weekend. While no comments have been issued regarding the impact of this switch on the team’s performance or strategy, it provides an opportunity to observe how Hirakawa manages the pressures and pace of a Formula 1® race weekend.
The Mexico City Grand Prix weekend schedule includes final practice sessions, qualifying, and the race itself, where Hirakawa will complete his debut. This event will be closely watched by those interested in driver development and the dynamics of mid-season driver changes within the sport.
Hirakawa’s debut with Haas adds an interesting chapter to the team’s 2026 campaign and offers insight into the role of reserve drivers stepping up during race weekends. The situation remains factual and straightforward, focusing on the confirmed replacement and Hirakawa’s progression through the weekend’s sessions.