Haas rookie Ollie Bearman answers our Getting to Know quickfire questions as we approach the summer break. He shares everything from funny driving test anecdotes to the F1 legends he’d invite for dinner, as well as the last time he laughed uncontrollably and his aspirations in sports.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Fast – I hope! Determined. And kind.
What drew you to F1?
I remember attending races with my dad, David, before I started karting. He raced at the club level in the UK. The smell of the tires and fuel captivated me right away. I knew I wanted to pursue this path.
What was your dad’s racing experience?
He competed in sports cars in the UK but unfortunately, financial constraints limited his progression. I have fond memories attending his races when I was five or six years old. My mum would get quite anxious watching him race, but I was mesmerized by the noise, the smells, and the speed.
When did you first drive a vehicle?
I believe the first time I drove was around the age of six at Buckmore Park. I was just learning to go around in circles, but I distinctly remember a fellow driver continually bumping into me, using my bumper to brake!
How many attempts did it take you to pass your driving test?
I didn’t succeed on my first try. I failed because the instructor thought I was rolling past stop signs, even though I insist I stopped! The other area of confusion was about hatch markings, which I misunderstood since I skipped lessons thinking I was good enough. Thankfully, I passed on my second attempt, albeit a bit embarrassed.
Who makes you laugh the most?
While having breakfast a few weeks ago, my brother Thomas made me laugh so hard I cried. I often find it hard to stop laughing once I start, especially when he cracks a joke unintentionally.
Who’s your closest friend in the F1 paddock?
(Laughs). I’d say Gabi Bortoleto. We live nearby and spend a lot of time together. He’s a fantastic guy. We compete fiercely on the track but share laughs off it too.
