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Komatsu Unfazed by Bearman's F2 Struggles

Bearman’s F2 Woes Don’t Rattle Komatsu

04/07/2024

Komatsu remains calm despite Bearman’s underwhelming F2 performance, emphasizing control over concerns.

The Haas F1 team principal has stated that Oliver Bearman’s challenging season in Formula 2 will not influence his selection process for the 2025 driver lineup.

Most paddock insiders believe that the young Brit, promoted by Ferrari, securing a full-time F1 seat next year is a done deal, with an announcement expected at Silverstone, where Bearman will also participate in Free Practice 1.

Bearman, who impressed earlier this year filling in for an ill Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, currently sits 14th in the Formula 2 standings with Prema.

His teammate, Kimi Antonelli, expected to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes F1 next year, is faring slightly better in 9th place but has yet to claim a victory.

“I place much more importance on how he works with us,” explains Ayao Komatsu, Haas F1’s director.

“We have enough free practice sessions in F1 to evaluate him. Last week, he drove in F1 with us in Barcelona, then debriefed and went on to qualify in F2. That’s not how one should prepare for F2, but his sessions with us are crucial.”

Komatsu says he doesn’t blame Bearman and Antonelli for their tough campaigns in F2.

“I have no idea about the issues Prema is facing with the car under the new regulations. I hear bits and pieces, but without knowing all the details, it’s easy to jump to the wrong conclusions. I am focusing more on what is under our control.”

“Of course, it would be easier if he was winning everything, but that’s not reality. So, we have to trust the information we have. And the bigger picture is what happened in Saudi Arabia, for example,” concludes Komatsu, referencing Bearman’s first F1 points during his debut in Sainz’s seat.

Komatsu Unfazed by Bearman's F2 Struggles

Komatsu Unfazed by Bearman’s F2 Struggles. Komatsu Unfazed by Bearman’s F2 Struggles

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