Bearman Ready for Ferrari, but Admits No Promotion Talks

Oliver Bearman, after a standout rookie season with Haas where he feels "ready" for a step up, confirms there have been no formal discussions with Ferrari about a potential promotion. The Ferrari Academy driver maintains an "open dialogue" with team principal Fred Vasseur, but these conversations focus on his current challenges, not his future with the Scuderia.

Why it matters:

Bearman's situation is a critical subplot in Ferrari's 2026 plans. With Lewis Hamilton struggling in his first season and Charles Leclerc issuing a "now or never" ultimatum for a title fight, Ferrari's driver lineup could be in flux. How the team handles its young talent like Bearman will signal its long-term strategy and commitment to building a future championship contender.

The details:

• Impressive Rookie Campaign: Bearman outscored his grand prix-winning teammate, Esteban Ocon, 41-38 in 2025, with a career-best fourth-place finish in Mexico.
• The "No Conversation" Quote: When asked about his Ferrari future, Bearman was direct: "Regarding my future, no conversation. I just drive the car. I think the rest will sort itself out if I perform at a good level."
• Driver Market Volatility: The futures of both current Ferrari drivers are uncertain. Hamilton's difficult 2025 season and Leclerc's public comments about needing a title-worthy car in 2026 have opened the door for speculation.
• Valuable Feedback: Bearman's role at Haas is strategically important for Ferrari. His conversations with Vasseur include feedback on the Ferrari power unit, which he uses in the Haas chassis, providing crucial data for the 2026 regulations.

What's next:

All eyes will be on the 2026 season and the performance of Ferrari's new car. The team's results will likely determine the futures of Hamilton and Leclerc, which in turn will open up a potential seat for Bearman. For now, the young Briton is focused on his own performance, letting his results on track make the case for his promotion.