Oliver Bearman believes his relocation to Italy to join the Ferrari Driver Academy at 16 was instrumental in shaping him into the person he is today. He made his Formula 1 debut for Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, scoring points at just 18 years old.
What happened?
Bearman detailed the reality of leaving the UK at a young age, moving to a new country, and not speaking the language. He had to learn Italian quickly to get by.
Why it matters for Oliver Bearman
The Haas driver credits the structure provided by Ferrari for disciplining him into the person he is today. He finished his rookie F1 season ahead of his experienced team-mate Esteban Ocon in the drivers' championship.
What comes next?
Now in his second season with Haas, Bearman has gone from strength to strength in 2026, currently sitting 11th in the drivers' standings with 18 points. He reflects on the influence of the Maranello outfit, saying it was a great experience getting thrown in at the deep end.
Bearman's first test and first FP1 came quickly, with his first race just six months after the first test. He had to mature and grow up very quickly, surrounded by adults all the time, including engineers, mechanics, and his trainer.
The 21-year-old has shown significant growth, and his current ranking is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Bearman's story serves as an inspiration to young drivers, highlighting the importance of perseverance and the right support system.
On the track, Bearman has demonstrated his skills, finishing ahead of his team-mate Ocon in the drivers' championship. His performance has earned him a spot in the top 11, with 18 points, while Ocon is 16th with three points.
As the season progresses, Bearman will look to continue his upward trend, leveraging the experience and skills he gained during his time with Ferrari. With his current standing, he is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula 1.