Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner names young F2 driver who can be next Max Verstappen

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has weighed in on the potential future of Ferrari reserve and current Formula 2 driver Oliver Bearman. He suggested that the young Briton could be a promising addition to the Haas lineup. 

With Nico Hulkenberg set to move to Stake F1/Audi in 2025, at least one seat will be available at Haas next season, and Bearman is emerging as a strong contender. The 19-year-old Bearman, who races for PREMA in F2, made his competitive Formula 1 debut earlier this season at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. 

Also read: Ayao Komastu opens up about Oliver Bearman's future in F1

Standing in for Carlos Sainz, who required an immediate appendectomy, Bearman impressed by qualifying P11 and finishing seventh, ahead of notable drivers such as Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris. This remarkable debut performance has sparked significant interest in his potential.

What did Guenther Steiner say?

Guenther Steiner expressed his thoughts on Bearman's future in Formula 1 during an appearance on The Red Flags Podcast. "I think Oliver Bearman is a good move for Haas," Steiner stated. "Bearman did well in the Ferrari, even if it was only one race, and I think he knows himself. It's a little too early to say, 'This is now the new Max Verstappen.'" 

Despite acknowledging Bearman's talent, Steiner was cautious about making any definitive comparisons to the Dutch superstar. Steiner also highlighted the competitive nature of securing a seat in Formula 1, noting that there is a "good waiting list" of drivers considering Haas as a viable option for 2025. 

Also Read: Haas team principal speaks up about possible prospects to replace Nico Hulkenberg from 2025!

With many drivers out of contract, the driver market is expected to be particularly active, especially at Alpine, where both Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon are seeking new deals. However, Steiner suggested that the financial demands of drivers like Gasly and Ocon might be too steep for Haas, making Bearman a more attractive and affordable option.

Steiner emphasized the uncertainty that accompanies any young driver's potential, stating, "He could be it, but it's also 50/50. You have no certainty that it will be him." He added, "I think there is a good waiting list. I would say that the two Alpine drivers are looking around, although I think their demands in terms of money are higher than what Haas can offer."