Photo: Haas F1 Team

Hamilton's 'heir apparent' ready to take on meaningful role in new challenge

12:02, 07 Feb

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byKada Sarkozi

Oliver Bearman is ready to take on a completely new challenge in the 2026 Formula 1 season.

"I really feel like as drivers, we can get stuck in and make a difference as well."

- Oliver Bearman

After some standout performances in 2025, including the Mexico City Grand Prix, many have predicted that Bearman could be Hamilton's replacement at Ferrari once the seven-time world champion leaves. The young driver was previously marked as the 'heir apparent' to that seat.

The current Haas F1 driver is set to face a new challenge this year, as for the first time ever, he can play a meaningful role in developing a Formula 1 car.

Bearman is looking forward to taking that opportunity with both hands this season.

He explained: "We have a brand new car, brand new power unit, it's the biggest change in really the history of F1. It's so nice to be involved in that and to be at the front of that alongside Esteban [Ocon].

Photo: Haas F1 Team

"Leading the way in terms of how we're going to develop the car, how we're going to change things. I've never had that opportunity before. I've gone from spec series in F4, F3, F2, and last year, Formula 1, it was essentially a carryover of the previous years. There was no change in regulation, which is also nice, but this big change is fantastic."

Therefore, the youngster argues that drivers' feedback can also play a key role this year.

He concluded: "I really feel like as drivers, we can get stuck in and make a difference as well."