Oliver Bearman drives car #87 for Haas in 2026, having finished 7th on his F1 debut at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as a last-minute Ferrari substitute while still a teenager. Born in Chelmsford on May 8, 2005, he earned his full-time Haas seat through that performance and an impressive junior career as a Ferrari Driver Academy product.
Bearman’s junior career included the 2021 Italian F4 championship and competitive seasons in Formula 3 and Formula 2. His Jeddah debut required stepping into Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari with minimal preparation; the composed, points-scoring result against established drivers impressed Ferrari’s management enough to secure his permanent seat. He added a second substitute appearance at the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix for Haas.
For 2026, Bearman enters his second full season at Haas, partnering Esteban Ocon. The new regulations give smaller teams a genuine chance to close the gap, and Bearman’s youthful energy and natural talent could deliver surprise results if Haas get their package right. His continued affiliation with Ferrari’s driver programme means his performances are watched closely by the Italian team.
Bearman drives with a confidence unusual for his age. He delivers when pressure is highest, with racecraft in traffic and tyre management that both improved visibly through his first full season of F1 competition.
British fans can follow Bearman across a season with strong European representation. The British Grand Prix sprint weekend at Silverstone in early July is the centrepiece, with the race at 15:00 BST and sprint at 12:00 BST. The run of European races from Monaco through Hungary provides regular Sunday afternoon viewing. Check United Kingdom time for timezone conversions.
At 21, Bearman is one of several young British talents on the grid and has the backing of Ferrari’s driver academy to support his long-term development. His 2026 season at Haas will be crucial in determining whether he can push for a future seat at a top team.