Oliver Bearman has 'no doubt' about his ability to be on the grid in 2025

2024 will be a very important year for Oliver Bearman. At almost 19 years old (next May 8), the Englishman is entering a pivotal season in his young career as he plays in practically every field.

First of all there is the Formula 2. For his first campaign in 2023, the protégé of the Ferrari Driver Academy was convincing with three pole positions, four victories and two additional podiums. However, his few mistakes and inconsistency cost him dearly, removing him from the fight for the title.

By repeating a year in 2024, the kid from Chelmsford is in another position and will arrive with a status still unknown to him: that of contender for the title. Aware of the “pressure” that often surrounds those who repeat a year, Oliver Bearman also knows that a coronation would bring him closer to his ultimate goal of F1.

« I know I'd be ready to go up there, assured the Briton when he was questioned about his ability to join the F1 grid in 2025 in the event of a very good year in F2. I know I have what it takes, but of course the preparation would be important and, first of all, I should do a good job in F2, that's the first step. But I have no doubt that if I am called, I will be ready to go."

Bearman credible candidate at Haas?

Covered by the Scuderia, the Englishman has little chance of landing directly in Maranello. The red management has complete confidence in him but they would undoubtedly see themselves, in the event of promotion, sending him to a client team to train as they were able to do with Charles Leclerc at Sauber in the past.

In 2023, the person concerned was entitled to two EL1s with Haas, one of the teams powered by Ferrari, in Mexico and then in Abu Dhabi, making a lasting impression within the American team. “ The surprise is how well he handled everything, really, commented Ayao Komatsu, director of engineering at Haas. I honestly can't pick a moment during this preparation where anything was frustrating or difficult, including managing it. It's been a really smooth process. It was a pleasure to work with him and his management team."

With no opportunity in 2024, Oliver Bearman knows he has a chance to seize. The transfer market for the 2025 season promises to be very lively with more than half of the grid at the end of their contract including the Haas drivers, Nico Hulkenberg et Kevin Magnussen. Enough to make the Briton a serious contender for a seat within Gene Haas's team before one day proudly representing the Prancing Horse. But before thinking about F1, “Ollie” must focus on his main goal of the year: the F2 title.

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