Oliver Bearman to replace suspended Kevin Magnussen at Azerbaijan GP
British driver Oliver Bearman is set to take the place of suspended Kevin Magnussen at Haas for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The race is scheduled to take place in Baku from September 13-15. This development comes after Magnussen was barred from participating due to surpassing Formula 1's penalty-point limit. Bearman, who has already been signed by Haas for 2025, will be taking part in his second Grand Prix. Here's more.
Bearman's 2nd Grand Prix appearance
As mentioned, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix will mark Bearman's second appearance in a Grand Prix. The 19-year-old driver had previously filled in for Carlos Sainz at Scuderia Ferrari in Saudi Arabia earlier this season, when Sainz was hospitalized due to appendicitis. Despite it being his first time driving the car in the final practice on Saturday, Bearman managed to secure a commendable seventh place finish.
Bearman's experience with Haas car
Bearman is not unfamiliar with the Haas car, having driven it during free practice sessions at the Emilia-Romagna GP, Spanish GP, British GP and Hungarian GP this season. He acknowledged the challenges of stepping in as a reserve driver but expressed confidence. "I've also had four FP1 sessions with Haas in the VF-24 already this season, so undoubtedly that will also prove to be valuable in tackling the full race weekend in Baku," he stated as per BBC.
Haas team principal comments on Bearman's opportunity
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu views this as a beneficial chance for both Bearman and the team. "This is another excellent opportunity for both Ollie and the team to work together, this time throughout an entire race weekend," Komatsu said. The suspension of Magnussen came after he accumulated 12 penalty points within a year, following a collision with Alpine's Pierre Gasly during the Italian Grand Prix last Sunday.
Magnussen's future in Formula 1 uncertain
Magnussen's suspension marks a first in Formula 1 history since the introduction of the penalty-points system in 2013. His future in the sport remains uncertain with only one seat left on the 2025 grid at Sauber team. There are speculations that Magnussen may lose his place in F1 at the end of this season.
