Ferrari’s F1 activities are always enthusiastically observed. In 2024, one of their academy drivers could become a huge talking point.
Young drivers have become a hotly debated topic in Formula 1. With testing heavily restricted and only ten teams on the grid, opportunities are limited for young talents.
Even with F1’s new mandatory rookie requirement (forcing all teams to run two rookies in FP1 sessions per year), there aren’t many open doors.
For talents like Oliver Bearman, however, reaching F1 is seen as a matter of when – not if. The British driver showed great potential in his first Formula 2 campaign, though he lacked the consistency to mount a title challenge.
Across the paddock, the Ferrari F1 Academy driver is very highly rated. His FP1 appearances for Haas played their part, finishing both sessions within a few tenths of Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen.
Of course, it is difficult to extrapolate too heavily from these sessions. Competing for the 2024 Formula 2 title remains Bearman’s best route to earn a promotion.
Despite this, his performances in F1 machinery cannot be overlooked. Even Guenther Steiner’s Haas team, well-known for their hesitance surrounding rookies, seems to be changing their tune.
The American team was highly complimentary of the 18-year-old after his FP1 sessions. This is good news for Bearman – especially because the Ferrari-powered team could give him his F1 debut.
Bearman plans F1 route
Even before earning an F1 contract, Bearman is clear about his preparation:
“When you enter F1, you deal with people who already have many races under their belt,” he told the media.
“Coming in as a rookie is a difficult job, so it’s something we’ve thought about. It will be really important that before starting an F1 season, I’m really prepared.
“I hope this means more FP1 and maybe even some private testing… This would be my ideal approach to an F1 season.”
By Bearman’s own admission, he cannot fully control his preparation for F1. Whilst his preferred scenario is clearly mapped out, Ferrari will dictate his activities in the next twelve months.
Regardless, preparation is largely a secondary objective. The first step will be to win the title (or least challenge) in Formula 2. This is the only way for the Ferrari junior to maximise his Formula 1 chances.
With Mercedes star Kimi Antonelli to drive alongside Bearman in 2024, next season will be of tremendous consequence for the British prospect.
