Young talents in the 2025 Formula 1 grid have brought fresh excitement to the races, with rookies Oliver Bearman of Haas and Mercedes’ Andrea Kimi Antonelli standing out. Sharing their early racing days in Formula 2 with Prema, the duo developed a strong camaraderie, often indulging in light-hearted antics. During a candid chat on the Fast and the Curious podcast, Antonelli disclosed one of their more audacious escapades—borrowing Bearman’s personal trainer, Paolo’s, credit card during the F2 round in Belgium and using it to shop online. Bearman, appearing later on the podcast, confirmed the tale with amusement.
“That did happen. I remember that quite well, actually,” Bearman recounted, grinning mischievously. The incident didn’t stop with the credit card; they had also seized Paolo’s ID card. This left the trainer confined to the track, blissfully unaware that Bearman and Antonelli were behind the disappearance. This playful episode, however, was only a glimpse into a season characterized by teasing their trainer, proving that the dynamics off the track were as competitive and entertaining as the racing itself.
Bearman’s revelation added depth to Antonelli’s original mischief story. Reflecting on their antics, Bearman commented, “That [is what happens] when you give racing drivers who are still teenagers too much time.” During their time at Prema, the duo’s playful misdeeds became a humorous anecdote that personified their friendship. Despite racing for different teams now, Bearman humorously hinted at continuing their legacy of pranks by promising to share Paolo’s secrets with Gabriel Bortoleto, Sauber’s rookie driver, whom Paolo currently trains. This promise suggests a future of light-hearted chaos awaiting the unsuspecting trainer.
The series of antics highlights not only Bearman’s mischievous nature but also the challenges faced by rookie drivers balancing intense racing careers with youthful exuberance. This playful side of Bearman and Antonelli underscores the importance of camaraderie and laughter in the high-stakes world of racing.
As fans eagerly await the unfolding of the 2025 season, Bearman’s past pranks serve as a reminder of the vibrant personalities shaping the new generation of Formula 1. With Bearman and Antonelli having set such spirited precedents at Prema, the spotlight now turns to how these young drivers will channel their energy and talent into success on the world’s most prestigious racing stage. The intrigue surrounding Bearman’s next move has left the F1 community buzzing with anticipation, eagerly watching how friendships and rivalries will evolve both on and off the track.
