Why Ollie Bearman is considered as the next big thing in F1? - Explained

Ollie Bearman’s rise in motorsport is a story of talent, opportunity, and resilience, making him a standout figure despite an average season in Formula 2. His journey took a significant leap when he was unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight earlier this year as a substitute for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

This sudden opportunity gave Bearman the perfect platform to showcase his abilities on the biggest stage, and he did not disappoint. With only a few hours' notice, Bearman was handed the daunting task of stepping into a Ferrari for the first time in an official F1 session.

Despite the pressure, he demonstrated remarkable composure, qualifying 11th, a performance that suggested he could have achieved even more with more time. His subsequent race saw him finish seventh, making him one of the youngest drivers to score points in Formula 1. This performance didn’t just earn him accolades; it solidified his place as one of the most promising talents on the F1 grid.

The buzz around Bearman didn’t start in Saudi Arabia, though. Discussions about his potential F1 future had been ongoing for some time. Ferrari’s team boss, Fred Vasseur, had already been in talks with Haas, exploring the possibility of integrating Bearman into the team. His performance in Saudi Arabia only accelerated these conversations, leading to his recent signing with Haas on a multi-year deal.

Bearman has been phenomenal for Haas as a reserve

Bearman’s calm demeanour and ability to perform under pressure have been widely praised. His role as a reserve driver for Haas has given him ample opportunity to work closely with the team, and his six FP1 appearances this season have only strengthened the relationship. Despite facing challenges in his F2 season with PREMA, Bearman has shown mental toughness, impressing those around him with his resilience and positive attitude.

What sets Bearman apart is not just his driving skill but also his maturity and adaptability, rare qualities in a 19-year-old. His ability to handle the pressure of a late F1 call-up and his steady progression in practice sessions have made him a highly sought-after talent. Haas, after observing him closely and gathering insights from Ferrari’s Driver Academy, didn’t hesitate to secure him for the 2025 season, recognizing the potential for a long and successful career in F1.