Esteban Ocon made the decision to sign with Haas without knowing that the Ferrari-powered team would later announce a significant partnership with Toyota.
Ocon, whose relationship with the struggling Alpine team collapsed in 2024, had been linked to Audi, surprising many when he chose Haas instead.
However, current Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg, who has signed with Audi-Sauber for 2025 and beyond, wasn't surprised by Ocon's decision to join the Ayao Komatsu-led team.
"The technical department was completely restructured at the end of last year," the German explained. "The entire technical apparatus has been running much more smoothly since then.
"And from what I've heard, the team has some interesting projects in the works, which I think will only benefit them," Hulkenberg added. "I think Haas will be a serious competitor in the coming years, especially next year, because the regulations will remain unchanged."
With Toyota now on board, Haas will continue its collaboration with Ferrari, including using the Maranello-made engine and gearbox.
But now, Haas will also have access to Toyota Gazoo Racing's facilities, staff, and manufacturing capabilities in Cologne, which could explain why Ocon was eager to join the team.
However, team principal Ayao Komatsu revealed that Ocon had no idea about the potential Toyota deal when he agreed to sign for 2025.
"I told him we have a development plan to take this team forward—a significant step change if you will," said Komatsu. "But when I wanted to finalise Esteban's contract—roughly around Austria—it was too early to guarantee anything.
"I didn't want to tell Esteban something I couldn't guarantee," Komatsu added. "If he signs with this in mind, I can't tell him three months later, 'Sorry, it didn't work out.'" body check tags ::
