In a stunning turn of events, F2 driver Oliver Bearman, the 18-year-old British sensation, is about to step into the Formula 1 spotlight. With Ferrari’s seasoned driver Carlos Sainz sidelined due to an unexpected appendicitis diagnosis, Bearman has been handed the keys to the prancing horse for the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
Who is the F2 driver Oliver Bearman?
Born in Chelmsford, Essex, on May 8, 2005, Bearman’s journey began on the karting tracks. His standout performances caught the eye, and he soon transitioned to car racing.
ADAC and Italian F4 Championships: In 2020, Bearman made his car racing debut, competing in the ADAC Formula 4 Championship and Italian F4 Championship. He secured victories in both series, hinting at his true potential.
The turning point came in 2021 when Bearman dominated both championships with the Van Amersfoort team. Ferrari took notice. In November 2021, Bearman joined the prestigious Ferrari Driver Academy. Names like Jules Bianchi and Charles Leclerc have emerged from this talent factory.
2022 saw Bearman move up to FIA Formula 3 with the renowned Prema team. Eight podium finishes, including a victory at Spa, showcased his prowess.
Fast-forward to 2023—Bearman stormed through F2, claiming four wins, including a double in Baku. His star was rising.ast year, Bearman got a tantalizing taste of F1 machinery during practice sessions with Ferrari customer team Haas. He left a mark, finishing 15th in FP1 in Mexico.
In January 2024, Bearman was officially named Ferrari’s reserve driver for the season. He shares the role with Russian talent Robert Shwartzman and Antonio Giovinazzi. Bearman juggles his F1 reserve duties with F2 commitments at Prema. His teammate, 17-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli, is another rising star.
Now, Olivier Bearman stands at the precipice. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix awaits—the dazzling lights, the scorching desert, and the roar of engines. He’ll face off against the likes of Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen.
As the engines rev, remember this name: Oliver Bearman. The Saudi sands will witness a young star’s ascent—a chapter in the Bearman chronicles that promises drama, speed, and heart-stopping moments.