Familiar Faces Among the F1 Rookies
This year, out of six full-season rookies in Formula 1, three approached the season opener in Australia with a sense of familiarity. Liam Lawson, having competed in 11 races in 2023 and 2024, already shed his “rookie” status. Additionally, Jack Doohan was called up for the last race of the previous season at Alpine.
Ollie Bearman’s Journey into Full-Time Racing
Ollie Bearman, who had three prior starts—including a standout performance as a last-minute substitute for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari—was expected to do well when he signed with Haas. Despite his experience in various races, he recognized that true immersion in the F1 spotlight would only come when racing full-time.
Adjusting to the Demands of F1
Bearman shared with The Athletic that not being referred to as a rookie felt unjust to him, especially at the year’s start. He faced multiple changes, similar to his fellow Formula 2 alumni, including new and challenging tracks and the overwhelming demands of media and sponsor commitments.
Struggles and New Realities
In Formula 2, Bearman had dedicated time on Thursdays for data review and track familiarization; however, in F1, he often finds himself with limited time with his engineers. After a rough start in Australia, where he encountered several technical difficulties, Bearman regrouped and performed better in subsequent races.
Managing Expectations
Although Bearman was somewhat well-known among F1 fans, he realized that maintaining realistic expectations for himself was essential. He acknowledged that a full season presents numerous variables and that personal performance may not always reflect in race results.
Balancing Training and Mental Health
With fluctuating performance levels from Haas, Bearman must adapt to factors beyond his control. Despite facing challenges in achieving points finishes, he’s focused on improving his performance, both physically and mentally, working with a coach to enhance his mindset.
Looking Towards the Future
As Bearman prepares for his home Grand Prix at Silverstone, he reflects on his journey and the luxurious life that comes with being an F1 driver. He remains grateful for the opportunity, acknowledging the hard work required to maintain his position and the unpredictability of motorsport.
