F1 News: Bearman Will ‘Probably Be In F1 Next Year’ According To Herbert - ‘Star On Our Hands’

Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes Oliver Bearman could "potentially be better than Max Verstappen".

Oliver Bearman - Ferrari / Ferrari Press Image

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert has lauded Oliver Bearman's debut performance, hinting at a bright future for the young driver with a potential full-time seat next year.

Key Takeaways:

• Johnny Herbert, the former F1 driver, has praised Oliver Bearman's debut, suggesting he's set for a full-time F1 seat in 2025, likely with Haas.
• Bearman, currently a Ferrari and Haas reserve and an F2 competitor, made a remarkable entry in F1, stepping in for Carlos Sainz during the Saudi Arabian GP.
• His debut was notable, securing 6 points after only one practice session, which Herbert believes signals the arrival of a new British motorsport star.

Oliver Bearman - Ferrari / Ferrari Press Image

18-year-old British driver Oliver Bearman has rapidly ascended the ranks in motorsport, recently making his debut on the F1 scene which caught the attention of the motorsport community. Stepping in for Carlos Sainz, who was sidelined due to an emergency appendectomy, Bearman had minimal preparation before being thrust into qualifying and the Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia.

Despite the formidable challenge, Bearman's performance was nothing short of spectacular. His ability to secure 6 points in his first race not only highlighted his potential in the sport.

Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert was full of praise for Bearman. He commented:

“It is wonderful. This type of debut performance from which legends are made. The greats have an uncanny ability to get a chance in the most powerful racing cars on earth and have the capacity to absorb all the pressures especially with Ferrari."

Oliver Bearman - Ferrari / Ferrari Press Image

Herbert further added:

“Ollie did a magnificent job. One of those rare debuts when there was a real wow factor. That bodes well for the future of British motorsport and his own future. He will probably be in an F1 car next year, probably a Haas. And thereafter his future is very bright. As long as he gets a drive next year his career will start to take off. We will have a star on our hands.

“He will be part of a younger generation that will throw up someone who is potentially better than Max!”

Herbert's bold assertion that Bearman could be "potentially better than Max" speaks volumes about the high expectations that now follow the young driver.

Thank you to Inclave Casino for setting up this interview.