F1 Rumour: Ollie Bearman To Drive For Haas In Austin GP In Strange Move

It has been reported that Formula 2 driver Ollie Bearman is set to drive for Haas in Austin.

It has been reported that Formula 2 driver Ollie Bearman is set to drive for the Haas F1 team in Free Practice 1 of the upcoming Austin Grand Prix.

Bearman joined the distinguished PREMA racing team in 2022 where he quickly made a name for himself by clinching a third-place finish in his F3 championship debut. By 2023, the young driver made the ambitious leap to Formula 2, a decision that soon proved to be right.

His exceptional skills were on full display in Azerbaijan. Despite facing a challenge early on, where an encounter with the wall during the qualifying rounds damaged his car's steering column, the British driver displayed sheer grit. Instead of backing down, he went on to secure the pole position. He remarked on the unexpected victory, saying: 

"I was not expecting it because I had a bit of damage to the car. I was ready to pit at the end of my first lap and got pole in the second one."

His performance didn't stop there. From a P9 start, the Ferrari Driver Academy talent went on to conquer the Sprint Race.

PREMA's reputation for moulding legendary racers, with alumni including the likes of Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc, underscores the potential they see in Bearman. Industry insiders, according to GrandPrix.com, suggest that:

"Ferrari's plan is to keep him with PREMA for next year, targeting the title, before trying to find him a race seat in Formula 1 for 2025."

The Ferrari Driver Academy is known for its rigorous standards and intense competition. However, Bearman's potential imminent Circuit of the Americas appearance signifies his stand-out status. This could very well be the springboard that propels him into the coveted world of Formula 1 racing.

However, some fans have been quick to pick up on the odd race choice for an FP1 debut. The Austin Grand Prix will be the host of yet another sprint race weekend, meaning that FP1 is the only Free Practice Session ahead of the Grand Prix. Putting Bearman into the car instead of either Kevin Magnussen or Nico Hulkenberg could seriously hinder the driver which sits out.

This hasn't been confirmed by the team yet. The Austin Grand Prix is set to take place on October 20-22.