On Thursday, Haas team announced that 19-year-old Brit, Oliver Bearman, will become a Formula 1 driver in 2025. He has signed a multi-year contract with the American team. His partner on the track remains a mystery. Nico Hülkenberg has chosen a new challenge with Sauber, and Kevin Magnussen is likely to be replaced. Team boss Ayao Komatsu is on the hunt for a new ‘expert’ to teach Bearman the ropes.
Who is Oliver Bearman?
Ayao Komatsu, the team boss, addressed the press on Friday. Naturally, he was asked about Oliver Bearman, the Formula 2 driver from PREMA who will be joining his team in 2025. “He’s a team player,” the Japanese boss said about his latest recruit. “And he’s a very mature driver for his age.” At 19, Bearman will be the youngest driver on the grid (unless other teenagers are contracted for the upcoming season).
Impressive Performance by Bearman
“What is so impressive is that Bearman understands very well what we expect from him,” explained Komatsu. “Of course, he wants to prove himself, but at the same time, he also drives very responsibly.” Haas has already used the Brit three times this year during a free practice. The young driver stole the show in Jeddah during his substitution with Ferrari.
Future Teammate
With the signing of Bearman, Haas has one more seat to fill for 2025. Who will join him is still unclear. Experts expect that the team will not continue with the Danish Kevin Magnussen. Esteban Ocon, who will not get a new contract with Alpine next year, is a popular option for the Americans. However, the team has also shown interest in Sauber veteran Valtteri Bottas. Haas wants to choose an ‘expert’ anyway. Bottas, with his ten race victories, is a safe choice in this regard.
“For a team like Haas, it is not wise to put two rookies in the car,” said Komatsu. A slight jab at his predecessor, Günther Steiner, who chose to deploy rookies Nikita Mazepin and Mick Schumacher in 2021. “We are looking for someone with a lot of experience,” he concluded.