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F1 Notes: Bearman Return, Sainz 2025 Contract Negotiations, Ferrari Upgrades, And More

A daily round-up of everything to catch up on.

Lydia Mee

F1 Notes: Bearman Return, Sainz 2025 Contract Negotiations, Ferrari Upgrades, And More
F1 Notes: Bearman Return, Sainz 2025 Contract Negotiations, Ferrari Upgrades, And More /

The Formula 1 community is reflecting on the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which came to a close on Saturday evening, whilst looking ahead to the Australian Grand Prix in just over a week. Whilst the teams prepare for the third round of the 2024 season, here is everything you need to catch up on. 

Ollie Bearman - Ferrari
Ferrari Press Image

Ollie Bearman Makes Ferrari Seat Return After Saudi Arabian GP Debut

Following his impressive Formula 1 debut at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Ollie Bearman has promptly resumed testing Ferrari's 2022 F1-75 car at Fiorano, marking his significant progress within the Ferrari Driver Academy. 

His debut race in Saudi Arabia was especially lauded for his ability to handle high-pressure situations and compete with seasoned drivers, earning him six points. With Carlos Sainz's participation in the upcoming Australian Grand Prix uncertain due to surgery, Bearman might be called upon again, showcasing the trust Ferrari places in his emerging talent.

Carlos Sainz Entered Negotiations For 2025 Seat With Top Team In Saudi Arabia

Amidst Carlos Sainz's recovery from surgery during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, reports emerged of his team engaging in discussions with Mercedes about a potential move for the 2025 season, spurred by Lewis Hamilton's unexpected transfer to Ferrari. 

These talks, taking place within Mercedes' hospitality suite and reported by Corriere dello Sport, hint at Sainz as a strong contender for Hamilton's vacated seat, especially given Sainz's impending contract conclusion with Ferrari. 

Lewis Hamilton Reveals Ugly Truth About W15 - Rivals Are "Walking All Over Us"

Lewis Hamilton, after finishing ninth in the Jeddah race, highlighted the Mercedes W15's performance issues, especially in high-speed corners, as a significant disadvantage against rivals. 

Despite high expectations for the W15 as Mercedes' 2024 contender, the car has struggled in the first two races, failing to propel Hamilton and his teammate into the top positions. 

F1 Rumour: Ferrari to Introduce Huge Upgrade At Imola After Early Season Success

Ferrari is reportedly developing an "extreme" version of its SF-24 F1 car, aiming to bridge the gap to Red Bull's RB20 and enhance its competitiveness in the 2024 season, following initial P3 finishes. 

The team is planning minor upgrades in April, with a significant overhaul expected at Imola, including new sidepods and a floor, based on an "EVO version" of the SF-24 currently in the wind tunnel. 

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Lydia Mee
LYDIA MEE

Lydia is the lead editor of F1 editorial. After following the sport for several years, she was finally able to attend the British Grand Prix in person in 2017. Since then, she's been addicted to not only the racing, but the atmosphere the fans bring to each event. She's a strong advocate for women in motorsport and a more diverse industry. 

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