Oliver Bearman is preparing to race once more at the Azerbaijan GP in Baku this year, following a two-week break after the Italian GP. The British rookie, who is eager to build on his previous experience at this event, impressed during the 2024 Azerbaijan GP and returns determined to make another strong impact in 2025.
Recalling a Breakthrough Performance at Baku Last Year
Last year, Oliver Bearman stepped into a racing seat for Haas at the Azerbaijan GP under unexpected circumstances. When Kevin Magnussen received a one-race suspension, Bearman replaced him and qualified 11th, though he started 10th due to a penalty for Lewis Hamilton. During the race, Bearman was running in 12th when a late collision involving Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz moved him up into the points zone.
Bearman’s debut in Formula 1 came earlier in 2024 at the Saudi Arabian GP, where he subbed for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari and secured a points finish. After placing 10th at Baku, he distinguished himself as the first driver to earn points in the opening two grands prix of the season while representing two different teams.
Reflecting on the significance of his 2024 Baku experience, Bearman said,
“It’s a really nice feeling coming back to a track I’ve already raced at with MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, subbing in last year. That weekend – finishing P10 – will stay with me for a long time, and getting to know the team and working with everyone really helped prepare me for this year,” (via Haasf1team.com)
“I’ve won here in junior categories, and love the tight, fast nature of the Baku City Circuit. It’s an intense lap to master, but when you get it right, there’s no better feeling,” added Oliver Bearman
His strong performances at Baku and familiarity with the challenging street circuit have set positive expectations for the upcoming race weekend.
Recent Season Form and Goals for Azerbaijan
Oliver Bearman showed promising pace during the early part of the 2025 Formula 1 season, including an impressive sixth-place finish at the Dutch GP. However, he struggled to maintain consistency in the following races, notably missing out on points at Monza. Despite these ups and downs, Bearman aims to replicate or surpass his previous points-scoring finish at the Azerbaijan GP.
As he approaches the Baku race, the Briton is focused on delivering strong results and further cementing his position within Haas. The tight, technical nature of the Baku City Circuit suits his skill set, and he hopes to use every opportunity to score valuable points for the team.
Haas Leadership Emphasizes Consistency as a Key Target
While Bearman has demonstrated flashes of brilliance this season, Haas F1 boss Ayao Komatsu has called for steadier results as the driver develops. Komatsu praised Bearman’s attitude and work ethic, highlighting his ability to accept feedback and continuously improve. He stated,
“He’s got such a great personality, a positive personality that motivates everyone, and 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 and it’s our target this year, [in the] races remaining, just to really showcase his talent consistently. That consistency is the key.” (via F1.com)
Currently positioned 17th in the drivers’ standings with 16 points, Bearman trails his teammate Esteban Ocon, who sits 13th with 28 points. The team’s leadership sees consistency as the foundation for Bearman to unlock his full potential and deliver more impactful results as the season progresses.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Oliver Bearman and Haas
With the 2025 Azerbaijan GP approaching, Oliver Bearman is poised to make a significant impression on the iconic Baku street circuit once again. His prior experience, combined with recent progress at Haas, suggests he is well-equipped to handle the intense and demanding nature of this race.
Success in Azerbaijan could mark another milestone in his rookie season, helping him gain confidence and momentum while reinforcing Haas’ competitive aspirations. For motorsports fans and followers of Bearman’s development, the upcoming race offers an exciting opportunity to witness a young driver’s determination and skill on full display.
