15 February 2026motorsportAnalysisDriver Ratings
Ocon accepts Haas criticism, cites VF‑25 brake issues for 2025 slump
Esteban Ocon wasn’t shocked by Haas boss Ayao Komatsu’s “we expected more” comment after a 15th‑place finish in 2025. Ocon blamed VF‑25 brake lock‑up and instability, promising a better 2026 effort.
French driver Esteban Ocon wasn’t surprised by Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu’s blunt “we expected more” appraisal of his 2025 campaign. Ocon finished 15th with 38 points, three behind rookie teammate Oliver Bearman, and blamed the VF‑25’s brake lock‑up and instability for his under‑performance.
Why it matters:
- A driver’s confidence and a team’s development trajectory are linked; recurring brake lock‑up prevents Ocon from extracting pace.
- Haas’ public criticism heightens pressure to deliver a more stable car for the 2026 season.
The details:
- Ocon reported front‑locking and brake instability on the VF‑25 for most of the year, an issue he said did not affect Bearman.
- In Abu Dhabi, setup changes enabled Ocon to reach Q3 and finish seventh – his best result of the season.
- Komatsu described the 2025 output as “50‑50”, indicating shared responsibility between driver and car.
- Ocon emphasized that the team must “leave last year behind” and work collectively on a more reliable package.
What's next:
- Haas will likely focus on brake balance and chassis feel when developing the 2026 car.
- Ocon expects a more competitive package, hoping to turn his late‑season glimpse of speed into regular points finishes.