Haas driver Esteban Ocon was replaced by Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa for the Mexico Grand Prix. (EPA Images pic)PARIS: French driver Esteban Ocon was on Tuesday sacked by American Formula One team Haas, it was announced.

Ocon, a veteran of 198 Grands Prix in a 10-year career with six different teams, had been replaced by Japanese driver Ryo Hirakawa for the Mexico Grand Prix on the weekend after Ocon had taken part in both practice sessions on Friday.

"Such decisions are never made lightly, Haas team chief Ayao Komatsu said on X of parting ways with Ocon.

"As was the case in Mexico City - but then, as now, we feel this is firmly in the best interest of the team moving forward.