Esteban Ocon Shatters Injury Rumors After Crutches Controversy at F1 Barcelona Test!
In a dramatic twist at the F1 2026 shakedown in Barcelona, Haas driver Esteban Ocon has taken to the spotlight to dismiss wild speculation surrounding his health. The French racer was seen holding crutches, sparking a frenzy of rumors that he might be nursing an injury ahead of the new season. But Ocon, with characteristic humor, has laughed off these claims, making it clear that the crutches were not his.
Ocon, gearing up for what is poised to be his second full season with Haas, clarified that the crutches belonged to his father, who recently underwent knee surgery. “People were saying I was driving with crutches. That’s awesome. My dad basically had surgery on his knee,” he stated, emphasizing the absurdity of the rumors. The 27-year-old dismissed the idea that he could possibly drive an F1 car while on crutches, calling the speculation “a little bit of an insult.”
His performance last season had its ups and downs, with Ocon achieving a top result of fifth place in China. Haas finished eighth in the constructors’ championship, marking their highest points total since 2018. Ocon found himself three points shy of rookie teammate Oliver Bearman, who made waves by matching Haas’s best-ever race result with a fourth place in Mexico.
During the shakedown in Barcelona, Ocon’s keen observations from the grandstand provided him valuable insights into the cars’ braking points and aerodynamic performances, especially in tricky conditions. He noted the varying strategies employed by different manufacturers, particularly in the critical Turn 10 area, shedding light on the tactical nuances that could define the upcoming season.
As Haas completed the third-most laps (386) of all teams, behind only Mercedes and Ferrari, Ocon’s off-track perspective has proven just as crucial as his on-track performance. “It was pretty interesting to watch from the sideline,” he said, expressing his eagerness to analyze the developments as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.
With the new season fast approaching, Ocon’s focus remains sharp, and while he may have a laugh at the rumors, he is ready to hit the ground running. The drama surrounding his crutches is just a minor chapter in the story of a driver determined to leave his mark in the high-octane world of Formula 1.
Stay tuned for more explosive updates from the paddock as the F1 season unfolds!
