Oliver Bearman ready for F1 debut as British teenager could end veteran's career

12 January 2024 , 07:00

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Oliver Bearman ready for F1 debut as British teenager could end veteran's career

British motor racing starlet Oliver Bearman insists he is ready to show what he can do in Formula 1 if a 2025 seat becomes available.

The 18-year-old from Chelmsford in Essex enjoyed a strong debut season in Formula 2 last year. He finished sixth in the drivers' standings after winning four races and securing six podiums for the Prema team for which he will continue to race in the upcoming 2024 campaign.

Bearman also caught the eye in two F1 outings for Haas. He drove for the American team in practice sessions at the Mexican and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix - opportunities set up through the link Haas have with Ferrari.

The driver market is set to be very active over the coming 12 months which could create opportunities for talented youngsters. Bearman is adamant he is ready should the opportunity come along for him to make the step up to the top single-seater category.

"I know I'd be ready to go," the teenager said. "I know I have what it takes, but of course preparation would be important and, first of all, I'd have to do a good job in F2 - that's step one. But I have no doubt that if I get a call-up, I'm ready to go."

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In theory, Bearman could be considered for any vacancies that arise on the F1 grid. But his status as a Ferrari junior driver means the most likely destination would be either Haas or Sauber as both teams have working relationships with the Scuderia.

Haas are, of course, already familiar with his talents and, relative to their rivals, have an ageing driver line-up. Kevin Magnussen is only 31 but faces a fight for his F1 career after a poor 2023 season. Nico Hulkenberg had a better year but is 36 and so not a long-term option. Both are out of contract at the end of this year.

Oliver Bearman's reputation is growing quickly and the Brit is being tipped for a future F1 berth (Getty Images)

Guenther Steiner was effusive in his praise for Bearman last year after his FP1 outings for the team. He is no longer in charge after his shock axing this week, but his replacement Ayao Komatsu also appears to be a fan and was very complimentary of the Brit last year.

"I don't think we can fault him," said the Japanese engineer. "He's done really well, all the way from the very initial preparation he's been very professional, very, very easy to deal with. And then every single process I've nothing to complain... He didn't put a foot wrong, really.

"In terms of his feedback, it was really good engagement with his engineers. Very, very good job. Very impressed. Honestly, I can't pick a moment where from all the way through the preparation, something was frustrating or difficult, including his management, it's been a really smooth process, it's been a real pleasure to work with him and his management team."

Daniel Moxon