Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has emphasized that rookie Oliver Bearman possesses the raw speed and skill necessary to compete on the Formula 1 grid but must now focus on delivering regular, consistent results during the second half of the 2025 season. Komatsu underlined the importance of turning Bearman’s evident pace into reliable performances that contribute points at every race weekend.
Bearman, in his first full season after making appearances with Ferrari and Haas last year, has attracted attention as one of the promising newcomers. He has demonstrated his potential with notable moments, including a sixth-place finish at Zandvoort, and has consistently kept pace with his experienced teammate Esteban Ocon both in qualifying and races. As Haas battles in a competitive midfield where they currently sit ninth in the constructors’ standings, Komatsu believes Bearman’s ability to maintain consistency could be crucial for the team’s progress.
The Rookie’s Progress and Areas for Growth
Speaking during the Italian Grand Prix weekend, Komatsu was clear about Bearman’s strengths and the challenges ahead.
“I think the speed, there’s absolutely no question. You see it, there’s no doubt the talent is there. Then for us, it’s really a matter of harnessing that talent and then delivering it consistently, every session, every race weekend, which is what we haven’t done. Again, we’re working with Ollie very, very closely, providing short-term objectives, getting feedback, work ethic, etc.,”
Komatsu explained.
This assessment reflects Bearman’s early season performance, where he has accumulated 16 points compared to Ocon’s 28. Despite that gap, Bearman has frequently matched his teammate’s pace, with both drivers holding a 9–7 head-to-head record across qualifying sessions and races. This performance confirms that Bearman has quickly adapted to the demands of Formula 1 without being intimidated.
Among the rookie class, Bearman’s points tally may appear modest next to Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has earned 66 points driving a Mercedes, and Isack Hadjar, who sits on 38 points with Racing Bulls. However, considering Haas’ current competitiveness, Bearman’s achievements remain noteworthy and highlight his skill in extracting performance from the car.
Positive Influence Within the Team Environment
Komatsu also praised Bearman’s attitude and character in the garage, stressing how his personality positively impacts the team atmosphere.
“He’s a great kid. He’s got such a great personality, a positive personality that motivates everyone, and then he’s very, very open-minded as well. He takes constructive feedback, even the criticism, very, very well, so we have a very good working relationship. It’s our target this year, races remaining, just to really showcase his talent consistently. That consistency is the key,”
Komatsu added.
Bearman’s campaign has experienced ups and downs, including eight race weekends where he failed to score points and two retirements. Nevertheless, his ability to bounce back was highlighted after the summer break when he delivered a season-best sixth place at Zandvoort, overcoming a pitlane start to secure a valuable result for Haas. This demonstrated his resilience and capacity to learn quickly from setbacks.
Learning from Races like Monza to Improve Future Results
At the recent Italian Grand Prix in Monza, Bearman faced a tactical challenge running a medium tire strategy similar to several rivals, which forced him to engage in on-track battles rather than relying on pit stop strategy. His late-race duel with Carlos Sainz ended in contact while defending the inside line, which resulted in spins for both drivers and a 10-second penalty for the Haas rookie. He ultimately finished twelfth.
Komatsu pointed to incidents like Monza as part of Bearman’s learning process, with an emphasis on refining racecraft and decision-making. The team is focused on supporting Bearman in converting his raw talent into consistent and smart performances moving forward.
Looking Ahead: Expectations for the Rest of the Season
With the midfield battle intensifying and Haas seeking to improve their position in the constructors’ championship, Bearman’s development will be pivotal. Komatsu’s strategy involves setting clear, manageable goals and maintaining close collaboration to build Bearman’s consistency and confidence.
As the team aims to capitalize on Bearman’s promising speed and positive influence within the garage, the remainder of the Formula 1 season will be crucial for demonstrating his growth as a driver and establishing himself as a reliable points scorer for Haas.
