Oliver Bearman to make F1 debut with Haas
On the eve of this weekend's Qatar Grand Prix, Haas confirmed that Oliver Bearman, a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, will drive on an F1 race weekend for the American team later on this season.
The 18-year-old, from Chelmsford, is a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy and competes in the FIA Formula 2 Championship. The British driver sits currently sixth in the standings with one round left in the season.
Following a successful campaign in F3 last year, Bearman stepped up into F2 for 2023 and has had an up-and-down season. He has had a few difficult weekends so far, but he has excelled on different tracks, having taken four race wins so far. He recorded his most commanding victory at the last race in Monza, having dominated the Feature Race on Sunday despite multiple interruptions.
Haas that receive their engines from Ferrari have announced that Bearman will drive for them in practice sessions in Mexico and Abu Dhabi later this year.
An impressive junior career so far for @OllieBearman 🇬🇧
— MoneyGram Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) October 5, 2023
He’ll drive our car in Mexico and Abu Dhabi for both FP1 sessions.#HaasF1 pic.twitter.com/Fl2VZuv1PC
“I am so happy to be joining MoneyGram Haas F1 Team driving in Mexico and Abu Dhabi,” said Bearman.
“Getting to Formula 1 has been my dream since I was go-karting so to be driving a car for the first time this year is really special. I’m grateful to the team, and of course Ferrari, for allowing me this chance. I’m working hard to make sure I’m ready to support the team as best I can on both occasions.”
Haas team principal Guenther Steiner added: “We’re very happy to offer Oliver Bearman these outings in Mexico and Abu Dhabi
“He’s had a stellar rookie season in Formula 2, four wins is testament to that, and as part of the Ferrari Driver Academy – we know his background preparation coming into these weekends will be first-rate. We look forward to welcoming Oliver into the team and have him drive the VF-23.”
