Haas F1 swiftly pinpointed the VF-25’s weaknesses, while Ocon lauded the collaborative efforts with Bearman, highlighting growing confidence and progress.
Esteban Ocon had the opportunity to run on intermediate tires at the Bahrain circuit this morning as rain hit Sakhir. The Haas F1 driver admitted he wasn’t expecting it, but at least he managed to drive while conditions were tricky, and his team continues to explore development directions.
“It was pretty crazy! It feels a bit surreal to say that, but we had these unusual conditions. We went through everything—intermediate tires, cold, wind—but we stuck to our long runs. Oliver continues this afternoon, and we’re on the same page,” Ocon said.
“We immediately identified the car’s weaknesses. There are plenty of positives, but we need to pinpoint areas for improvement right away. The progression curve is huge since we’re still at the start of the season. So far, so good, and we’re having trouble-free days.”
The French driver is gaining a better understanding of his VF-25 and is pleased with how well he and the team are working together on an operational level: “It’s been really good to understand the car in proper conditions, to grasp the details.”
“I have my way of working, the team has its own, and we need to align them so we understand each other when I’m in the car—that’s what we’re doing. So far, it’s coming together really well. Everyone is highly motivated and wants to make my life easier, which is a good transition. Everything is working; we can do better, but that’s the goal for tomorrow and the coming days.”
Ocon is already happy with his exchanges with Oliver Bearman, as the two are working together efficiently: “It’s been really good. We have an open relationship, and we try to share as much as possible about what we need from the car.”
“I finished on something we need to correct on the car, and he started directly with that this afternoon. And it will be the opposite tomorrow—he’ll tell me what he needs in the morning, and I’ll continue in the afternoon.”
With the cooler conditions and intense running on track, Bearman felt more comfortable and welcomed the progress he sensed at the wheel: “The track improved significantly compared to what I experienced yesterday, so I’m happy to be back in the car.”
“We made good progress with the long-run setup, and although there was a small issue at the end that cost me some track time, we are looking into it, and everything should be fine for tomorrow.”
“Yesterday, it was difficult to judge with the wind and a green track, but now I have a better idea, and I’m pleased. It feels like a continuation of what I’ve experienced with the team over the years, after driving the VF-23 and VF-24. I remain very confident in how the long runs went today.”
Ayao Komatsu, the team principal, confirmed that Haas continued its program, which primarily focuses on long runs. A minor reliability issue did not dampen his enthusiasm.
“Conditions were challenging today, with intermittent rain, so we did our best. We largely continued yesterday’s program and made progress with Esteban this morning,” Komatsu noted.
“In the afternoon, with Ollie, we carried on with the tests and got some answers, which is very positive. Unfortunately, just before the end of the day, we encountered a minor issue with the car and had to stop running 20 minutes before the session ended.”
“We will fix the issue tonight and be back on track tomorrow. I have to say that today, we completed about 80% of the tests and running program, which is not too bad. Tomorrow, we will focus on the car’s balance and short-term performance, combined with race simulations.”
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Ocon & Bearman Build Strong Synergy as Haas Analyzes VF-25 Ocon & Bearman Build Strong Synergy as Haas Analyzes VF-25 Ocon & Bearman Build Strong Synergy as Haas Analyzes VF-25
