Oliver Bearman, one of the newest members of the F1 Paddock showed up and put their talents on display at Qualifying at the Japanese GP.
Oliver Bearman made it into the final stage of qualifying, beating out more experienced drivers, such as Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz and Pierre Gasly.
Since making their F1 debut, this is the first time Bearman has beaten his teammate Estaban Ocon in qualfiying, as in Australia, he ended his run with an NC (not complete) and in China, he ended in P17.
However, this may be a turning point for the new rookie. This is Bearman’s first top 10 qualifying spot this season, and he has adapted to the Haas better than expected.
Oliver Bearman “in a good rhythm” during Japanese GP qualifying
Speaking after qualifying Oliver Bearman said:
“I have had a good rhythm all weekend and I felt really confident with the car, which is what I’ve been telling the team, but they didn’t have anything to back it up yet. And then after Q1 and Q2, that was really where I started pushing the car and finally actually giving 100% everywhere.”
But his competition is stiff between his fellow rookies in the paddock.
Hadjar and Antonelli have appeared in the top 10 spots twice over the three qualifying sessions that have taken place so far, with Hadjar beating his more experienced teammates in P7 and Antonelli taking P6 in Suzuka.
Like a majority of Formula 1 drivers, Suzuka is a driver favorite to drive on the calendar and holds a special place in the hearts of drivers such as Max Verstappen and Alex Albon.
Bearman may be no different and said: “It’s been amazing. I’ve had so much support from the Japanese fans. Also, being part of Haas, you know, there’s a lot of support for us anyway. The Japanese fans are so creative, which is fantastic and it really makes it a pleasure to be here.”
The race ahead for Bearman
Despite going above and beyond to secure Haas’s first Q3 spot in qualifying this season, Bearman and the team are aware that the race will be an uphill battle.
With forecasted conditions to hit the Suzuka Circuit, Haas has their eyes in front and hope to put up a good fight to secure points.
“I hope to fight the guys in front, not behind. I mean starting within the points, which is always good and I think we have better race pace relative to quality pace. I felt quite comfortable on the medium and the hard this weekend. So, let’s see.
“I know there’s rain tomorrow, predicted. But either way, it’s going to be an interesting race.“
Qualifying has set an interesting, but promising stage for Oliver Bearman during tommorow’s Grand Prix and the challenges it may bring.
