Formula 1 never fails to surprise, and Oliver Bearman driving for Haas F1 Team this weekend is proof of that.
Called up to replace Kevin Magnussen at the last moment for the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, Bearman showcased his talent by securing a spot in the top 10 during the sprint race qualifying. An unexpected challenge, an impressive performance, and a Formula 1 weekend that promises excitement!
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A morning call to remember
Bearman’s weekend took a sudden turn at 6:30 a.m. Friday when he received a call from Haas F1 Team principal Ayao Komatsu. Magnussen, unwell, couldn’t compete in the first sessions of the Grand Prix, which gave the young British driver the chance to prepare for his third Formula 1 Grand Prix this year. Bearman first raced in Saudi Arabia earlier in the season and previously stepped in for Magnussen in Baku when he served a one-race suspension. “When I saw Ayao’s name, I was much less annoyed than if it had been my mom calling and forgetting about the time difference!” he jokes. He’s clearly determined to give his all for the team that will be welcoming him officially next season in 2025.
BREAKING: Ollie Bearman will contest the full weekend for Haas in Brazil
Already confirmed for Friday's sessions and the Sprint, he will now take part in qualifying and the Grand Prix while Kevin Magnussen recovers from illness#F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/uBzzQ6OuCH
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 1, 2024
A standout performance right from the first laps
Right from his first free practice session (FP1) on Friday, Bearman showed an impressive pace in the Haas. During sprint race qualifying, he managed to secure a top-10 spot, even outpacing his teammate Nico Hulkenberg. “The car felt great. From the first lap, I got a good feeling,” he shared, though a small error in the first sector cost him a few precious seconds. Sure, the track improves lap after lap, which can distort the drivers’ actual performances, but still, it’s a feat, wouldn’t you agree? The Sprint race will be a first for him, as there weren’t any in Jeddah or Baku during his other two races this year. To put it in perspective, Ollie Bearman, with just two races under his belt, is already ranked 17th in the drivers’ championship among the 23 drivers who participated this season. Incredible!
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First driver to score for two teams: Bearman already making his mark
Bearman made F1 history as the first driver to score points for two different teams in his first two races. The achievement began with a 7th place for Ferrari in Jeddah and continued with a 10th place for Haas F1 Team in Baku. Starting at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, one of the season’s most demanding circuits, was far from easy, especially in Sainz’s Ferrari. The pressure was enormous, and although the main expectation was just for him to finish the race intact, he managed to score points. For this Brazilian weekend, Bearman hopes to replicate his previous performances and score points for Haas once again. This Brazilian weekend offers a great opportunity for him to continue familiarizing himself with Formula 1 as he gears up to drive for Haas next year. Go, Ollie!
This article explores Bearman’s impressive journey, his skill behind the wheel of the Haas, and the potential impact he could have on the team’s future in Formula 1.
Images: Ferrari Press / Haas F1 Team press release
