Oliver Bearman Praises Lewis Hamilton as F1’s Kindest Role Model

Haas driver Oliver Bearman has openly praised Lewis Hamilton, calling him one of the kindest and most approachable figures on the Formula 1 grid. This admiration comes as Hamilton prepares to challenge the 2025 Italian Grand Prix at Monza, aiming to improve his difficult season and deliver a strong podium finish in front of the passionate Tifosi crowd. Bearman emphasized the positive impact Hamilton has had on younger drivers, including himself, highlighting Hamilton as an exemplary role model in the sport.

Bearman Reflects on His Relationship with the Seven-Time Champion

Speaking to Motorsport.com ahead of the Monza race, 20-year-old Bearman shared insights into his interactions with Hamilton, who has been supportive since Bearman’s early days in Formula 1. The young British driver praised Hamilton for his welcoming demeanor, recalling how the champion remained approachable even after his debut race. Bearman said,

“Honestly, he’s been one of the kindest and most forthcoming drivers on the grid. I remember after my first race he was incredibly kind and we sometimes catch up on the parade laps and stuff like that and always really kind and approachable, really a good model for young drivers to look up to,”

adding,

This is the type of guy that you should be, because I can imagine coming into the sport and these guys who are at the top of the sport being unapproachable – that would make it really difficult to settle into Formula 1, and that’s not been the case at all.

Memorable Early Encouragement from Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton’s support of Bearman dates back long before his Formula 1 debut. After Bearman was signed by Haas for the 2025 season, he revealed the special significance of an early motivational video he received from Hamilton years ago. Bearman recalled,

“I received a video from him in 2015 or 2016 saying like, ‘Keep pushing and hopefully you can make it to F1 one day,’ and here I am,”

and added,

I think he met one of my mum’s friends and she got him to make a video. It was the most amazing day of my life. I just actually got reminded of it yesterday, I saw the video again. It was a funny moment.

Recognition and Respect from Hamilton and Ferrari

Hamilton’s respect for Bearman was clear during the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, where the young driver filled in for Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz after he was sidelined with an emergency appendix surgery. Bearman’s impressive seventh-place finish earned him six points on short notice and confirmed his promising future in Formula 1. Hamilton was seen applauding Bearman after the race and privately sent words of encouragement, underscoring the growing respect between the two British drivers. Following this, Haas confirmed Bearman’s entry to their 2025 lineup alongside Esteban Ocon.

Bearman’s Admiration for Hamilton’s Legacy

Earlier this season during the British Grand Prix, Bearman expressed his deep admiration for Hamilton, whom he has studied throughout his life. The young driver highlighted Hamilton’s mental resilience and extraordinary pace as qualities he aspires to emulate. Bearman is now one of four British drivers on the 2025 grid, alongside Lewis Hamilton, Esteban Ocon, and others, representing a strong British presence in the sport.