Who will be the primary British successor to Lewis Hamilton when he hangs up his helmet after a few years of Ferrari adventure? Perhaps Oliver Bearman. He once impressed during a stand-in at Ferrari and was announced as a Haas driver for 2025 during the British GP. He shares the emotional scenes this news sparked.
Oliver, at just 19, you’re guaranteed a spot in F1 next year. How does that feel?
“Unreal. And to be honest, it’s also a relief. I’m young, I have plenty of time. But after that stand-in at Ferrari earlier this season (GP Saudi Arabia), you want more as quickly as possible. That was such a fantastic experience. And then things didn’t go as well as hoped in Formula 2, so as a young driver, you hope that it doesn’t ruin your chances. Fortunately, Ferrari kept faith in me, as did Haas. As did the people around me.”
The world saw on TV how your father nervously watched your unexpected stand-in in Jeddah, how involved he was in the Ferrari pit box. How special was it to share with your parents that you’re becoming an F1 driver?
“It meant a lot to them, my mother, for example, reacted very emotionally. And we all did, of course. Everyone in my environment, my family and others, has always supported me in my career. Being able to call myself a Formula 1 driver gives a very beautiful and special feeling.”
When did you actually find out?
“That was after the Austrian Grand Prix. That’s when I was told that it was settled, the contract could be signed. I did that, it went quite smoothly. The announcement itself, that’s the moment that will always stay with me. I heard it with my manager, which meant a lot to me. We’ve been working together my entire career, so it was special.”
The Significance of Your Racing Number
“Yes, number 87. That’s the number. Choosing a number might be the least important thing when you hear that you’re going to race in Formula 1. But for me, 87 is a number with a story, and that’s why I chose it. I was born on the eighth (in May). And my brother on the seventh (August). My father also raced. You guessed it: with number 87. So, the circle is complete for us.”
Youngest Ferrari Driver Ever, First Englishman in a Ferrari Since 1972
“Did everything change for you when you stepped in as a replacement for the sick Carlos Sainz in Jeddah? I don’t know about everything, but it’s clear that it contributed a great deal to the opportunities you get to race in Formula 1. If I hadn’t been in the Ferrari Driver Academy, I wouldn’t have been the reserve driver who got to step in for Carlos. And I think that performance helped me a lot to stay in the picture, or at least to leave an impression. Just like my performances during free practice in the Haas car. Because in Formula 2, I also want to show myself, but I don’t have to beat around the bush that it’s going less well than hoped so far.”
What Can We Expect from You in the Haas Car Next Season?
“It’s hard to look that far ahead, but given recent developments, things are looking good at Haas. For example, you’re scoring points with two cars in Austria, something I’d also like to contribute to as a driver next season. But the midfield in Formula 1 is wide, it’s competitive. You might have to drive even more flawlessly than at the front of the field, because it’s so incredibly close. You have to try to approach perfection. But whatever it takes, I’ll try to show it. Because you have to seize these kinds of opportunities. Just like with Ferrari.”
