In a recent interview, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu spoke about the young Oliver Bearman. According to him, one day, Bearman will drive for Ferrari
Oliver Bearman in a Ferrari. A topic that might seem premature at the moment, especially given the immense excitement shown by fans of the Prancing Horse following the unveiling of Lewis Hamilton as the team’s new driver. However, in time, it will undoubtedly become a hot topic in Maranello. Currently serving as Ferrari’s third driver and racing on loan for Haas, as has already happened on two occasions in 2024, Bearman is fully aware of the enormous opportunity before him: to potentially become the direct successor to either Hamilton or Leclerc, and to fulfill his destiny as a gem of the Ferrari Driver Academy. At least, that’s what his current team principal, Ayao Komatsu, suggests.
The Japanese team principal has proven over the past season to have a very clear vision for the future of his team, taking bold decisions in the process: veteran driver Kevin Magnussen was shown the door, making way for the young Ollie Bearman, who was personally championed by Fred Vasseur for the American team’s seat. Komatsu also pulled off the major signing of Esteban Ocon, bringing in the Frenchman after his fallout with Flavio Briatore at Alpine, to replace the departing Nico Hulkenberg, who was recruited by Audi-Sauber.
Komatsu’s words: “He’ll drive a Ferrari one day”
In an interview with Motorsport.com, Komatsu emphasized this choice: “Oliver is a Ferrari driver, and we’ve signed him for two years. But if we do a good job and Ollie performs just as well, there’s no way Ferrari can overlook him.”
These strong words from Haas’ team boss were followed by more praise:
“It’s strange to call Ollie a rookie because I don’t see him as one. We pay close attention to what he says. Naturally, he has gained valuable experience in the Ferrari Academy, in the simulator, and by driving both our VF-23 and VF-24 cars.”
Komatsu also expressed his satisfaction with Bearman’s brilliant debut behind the wheel for Haas: “Every time he’s stepped into the car, his feedback has been excellent. His approach has been exceptional, and his speed has been outstanding. In Baku and Interlagos, he outqualified Nico Hulkenberg—who was our benchmark—in both qualifying sessions “
Finally, Komatsu concluded with even more praise for Bearman, looking ahead to his potential future at Ferrari:
“I’m sure Ferrari will want regular feedback from him. In fact, I’ll be meeting with them during the first week of February to better understand exactly what kind of input they’re expecting.”
Photo: Scuderia Ferrari HP, MoneyGram Haas F1 Team