Ollie Bearman Replaces Schumacher at Haas for Spanish Grand Prix; Team Chief Expresses Curiosity Haas F1 team has handed Ollie Bearman a seat in the car for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, replacing Mick Schumacher. The move comes as a surprise, with Bearman having only driven in Formula 3 previously. Team chief Gunther Steiner explained the decision: “We’re giving Ollie a chance to show what he can do in a Formula 1 car. He’s a talented young driver with a lot of potential.” Steiner also hinted at a possible future for Bearman with Haas: “We’re always looking for the next generation of talent, and Ollie is definitely on our radar.” Bearman expressed his excitement at the opportunity: “This is a dream come true. I’m grateful to Haas for giving me this chance to prove myself.” The move has raised eyebrows in the paddock, with some questioning Haas’s decision to replace Schumacher, a more experienced driver. However, Steiner insists that Bearman has earned his place in the car. “We believe in Ollie’s abilities,” Steiner said. “He’s been consistently impressive in Formula 3, and we’re confident that he can make the step up to Formula 1.” Bearman, who is just 19 years old, will become the youngest British driver to compete in Formula 1 since Lando Norris in 2019. He will be partnered with Kevin Magnussen in the Spanish Grand Prix. The Spanish Grand Prix is scheduled to take place on May 21-23 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. It will be Bearman’s first opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities in a Formula 1 car.Haas Team Confirms Oliver Bearman for Spanish Grand Prix Practice Session
Haas Team Confirms Oliver Bearman for Spanish Grand Prix Practice Session The Haas Formula 1 team has announced that rising star Oliver Bearman will take the wheel for the first practice session of the Spanish Grand Prix, marking a significant step in the young driver’s burgeoning career. Team boss Ayao Komatsu revealed this move as part of the team’s strategy to evaluate Bearman’s potential for a full-time seat in the 2025 season. This follows Bearman’s impressive performance at Imola and demonstrates the team’s growing confidence in his abilities. At just 19 years old, Bearman has rapidly ascended through the motorsport ranks with the backing of Ferrari. He notably filled in for Carlos Sainz at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. His track record, which includes championship titles in Italian and ADAC Formula 4 and a third-place finish in Formula 3, has earned him recognition in the racing world. Currently competing in Formula 2, where he holds 13th position after five rounds, Bearman is scheduled for four more FP1 sessions with Haas this season, highlighting his role as a reserve driver and a potential member of Formula 2’s next generation of drivers. Bearman’s integration into the Haas team comes at a time of evolving dynamics. Nico Hulkenberg’s move to Kick Sauber/Audi and Kevin Magnussen’s ongoing contract negotiations mean that Bearman’s assessment could be timely. Komatsu emphasized the team’s open approach to driver selection for 2025, underscoring the importance of finding candidates who align with the team’s culture and ambitions in Formula 1. “Of course we are evaluating him. If he was not considered, we would not let him drive in FP1, and the next time he is in the car will be in Barcelona,” said Komatsu, confirming Bearman’s critical evaluation phase. Haas has made a strong start to the 2023 season, with top-10 finishes in Saudi Arabia, Australia, and China, placing them seventh in the constructors’ standings. Bearman’s contributions during practice sessions will provide valuable insights into the team’s vehicle capabilities and adjustments. As Bearman prepares for his Barcelona appearance, replacing Hulkenberg for the first session, his ability to capitalize on this opportunity will be closely monitored. Komatsu’s comments indicate a strategic patience and thoroughness in the driver selection process: “I don’t really have a timetable, it’s more about finding the right driver for our team. We’re still quite a small team. To have someone with experience, someone with a really good work ethic, who works well with the band can integrate and really move the team forward… that’s what we’re looking for, so we’re talking to different drivers.” This moment marks a milestone not only for Bearman but also for Haas as they shape their future in Formula 1. The decisions made now will undoubtedly influence the team’s trajectory and competitiveness in the sport for years to come.
Ollie Bearman will take over the wheel of Kevin Magnussen’s Haas car for the Spanish Grand Prix, the team has announced. The 18-year-old British driver, who is a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, will make his F1 debut in Barcelona, with Magnussen stepping aside for the weekend. Haas team principal Guenther Steiner admitted that the team is interested in signing Bearman to a full-time race seat for 2024. “We’re very excited to give Ollie this opportunity,” said Steiner. “He’s a very talented young driver, and we believe he has the potential to be a future star in Formula 1.” Bearman said he is “over the moon” to make his F1 debut with Haas. “It’s a dream come true,” said Bearman. “I’ve been working towards this moment my entire life, and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the VF-23.” Bearman has been racing in Formula 3 this season, and he currently sits third in the championship standings. He has won two races and has finished on the podium in all but one of the races he has competed in. The Spanish Grand Prix will be held on May 21st.
