Esteban Ocon denies physical clash allegations after Haas benching in Mexico City
The French driver addressed media reports of a confrontation with team principal Ayao Komatsu following his sudden removal from the Grand Prix weekend.
Haas F1 Team decided to bench Esteban Ocon for the remainder of the Mexico City Grand Prix weekend at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, according to Mathrubhumi.
The American outfit announced that reserve driver Ryō Hirakawa would replace Ocon for FP3, qualifying, and Sunday's race alongside Oliver Bearman.
While Haas provided no official reason for the swap, media outlets verified the decision was not due to illness or a medical emergency.
Ocon issued a social media statement addressing reports that a disagreement with team principal Ayao Komatsu had escalated into a physical clash.
The 30-year-old acknowledged a difference in viewpoints occurred after Friday practice but categorically rejected allegations of physical violence.
Ocon stated he strongly condemns violence in all forms and believes disagreements should be handled with professionalism and respect.
The driver had previously voiced frustration over the radio during Friday's Free Practice 2 session after being instructed to change tyre plans.