ESXi should allow you to run different flavor of linux even if it is not listed under VMware compatibility matrix.
we have an option to select "other linux 32bit/64bit" operating system while creating a VM in ESXi.
Having said that, VMware will not support anything else that what is listed on the HCL. any issues and you are solely responsible.
If you found my answers useful please consider marking them as Correct OR Helpful
Regards,
Hussain
https://virtualcubes.wordpress.com/