Oliver Bearman is preparing to compete closely with Max Verstappen in Formula 1 by adjusting his racing style. Since debuting with Ferrari in 2024, the British driver has carried his strong form into his rookie year at Haas in 2025, finishing 13th overall with 41 points and outperforming his seasoned teammate, Esteban Ocon.
Standout Performances Mark Bearman’s Rookie Season
During his first full season, Bearman produced notable results including eighth place in China and sixth in both Zandvoort and Sao Paulo. His most remarkable finish came at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he secured fourth place. This performance equaled Haas’ best-ever result since they joined Formula 1 in 2016.
At that event, Bearman pushed Verstappen hard around the tight Mexico City street circuit, nearly achieving a podium spot through a determined and skillful performance.
Adjusting Racing Tactics to Keep Verstappen at Bay
On the High Performance Podcast, Bearman described how he changed his driving strategy at the Mexico City GP to prevent Verstappen from gaining any advantage. After executing a strong overtaking move inside turn six amidst a battle involving Lewis Hamilton, Bearman acknowledged the necessity of denying Verstappen even the smallest margin of space on track.
“It’s not that he was putting me under any more pressure than any other time,”
Bearman explained. “When I went side by side with him, he was just another car on the track, but you know who it is, and you know that the way he holds himself is differently to the others.
“You know how aggressive he is. You know that if you give him an inch too much, he’s going to take it and he’s not going to let you get away with even the smallest mistake.”
?Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Driver
Bearman detailed how his usual approach of opening a corner to gain a better exit was abandoned in this case due to Verstappen’s presence.
“So, it’s not that he did anything differently. It’s just the perception of, ‘It’s Max. He’s the best, it’s him.’ And I was side by side with him, and I was like, normally I would have tried to open up that corner to prepare myself for the best exit.
“But I said, ‘No, I have Max next to me. So, if I give him a bit more space on the entry, he’s going to take it and overtake me. So, I don’t have that opportunity. I need to literally be as close as I can to don’t give him any more space than I can.’”
?Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Driver
Reflecting on the experience, Bearman expressed eagerness to face Verstappen more often in races.
“Well, I mean in that situation, it was one corner that we were side by side, but I really wish to race against him more and tell you.”
?Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Driver
Potential Path Toward a Ferrari Seat in 2027
Following his strong debut season, Bearman aims to continue improving and hopes to build momentum into the 2026 campaign. His adaptability across different cars and racing categories suggests he is prepared for the challenges ahead.
Although it remains uncertain whether Haas will be competitive enough to challenge Red Bull and Verstappen soon, Bearman’s understanding of racing the Dutchman could serve him well in future title fights. Speculation around a move to Ferrari in 2027 has intensified, with some viewing him as a prospective successor to seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Former racer Ralf Schumacher has suggested that Bearman could form a formidable “dream team” at Ferrari when he potentially replaces Hamilton. While Bearman currently reports receiving “nothing” concrete about joining Ferrari, a transfer could materialize if he continues delivering strong results and if Hamilton faces difficulties adapting to new regulations.
Looking Ahead to Rivalries and Championship Prospects
As Bearman’s career progresses, his evolving tactics and experience battling drivers like Verstappen underscore his growing maturity on the track. If he maintains this trajectory, the British driver could soon be a regular contender for podiums and championships, altering the dynamics within Formula 1’s leading teams and rivalries.
