Clear Backs Bearman for Title Glory as Perez Plans Cadillac Farewell

Veteran F1 figure Jock Clear has heaped praise on young Oliver Bearman, tipping the Haas driver as a future world champion. Meanwhile, Sergio Perez has confirmed his highly anticipated move to Cadillac in 2026 will be the final chapter of his long and successful Formula 1 career, marking the end of an era for the Mexican race winner.

Why it matters:

These comments highlight the ever-evolving landscape of F1 driver lineups. Bearman's potential represents the next generation of talent aiming for the top, while Perez's planned exit signals the transition of a proven race winner into a leadership role for a new manufacturer, shaping the competitive future of the grid.

The details:

• On Bearman's Potential:
  • Jock Clear, a highly respected engineer with a long history at Ferrari, stated he sees title-winning potential in Oliver Bearman.
  • Clear drew a direct comparison to Charles Leclerc, another driver he believes is destined for a championship.
  • This endorsement adds significant weight to Bearman's promising career, which already includes a standout debut for Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
• On Perez's Future:
  • Sergio Perez, speaking on the Cracks podcast, called his move to Cadillac the 'final major challenge' of his F1 career.
  • The six-time race winner will return to the grid in 2026 after taking a year off following his departure from Red Bull.
  • His stated goal is to leverage his vast experience to help drive the growth of the new American team as it enters the sport.

What's next:

All eyes will be on Bearman's performance with Haas in 2025 as he looks to solidify his place in F1 and potentially stake a claim for a future Ferrari seat. For Perez, the 2026 season will be a fascinating watch, as he transitions from a front-runner to a team-builder, aiming to leave a lasting legacy by establishing Cadillac as a competitive force.