It had been in the air for a long time, but Oliver Bearman can officially call himself a Formula 1 driver. The Brit was confirmed by Haas on Thursday as a driver for the upcoming season. Haas driver Kevin Magnussen, who does not yet have a seat for next season, commented on Bearman's appointment.
"A young guy getting to live his dream, getting to Formula 1….it’s awesome really," Magnussen told the press including GPblog at Silverstone.
In 2014, Magnussen made his Formula 1 debut with McLaren. The team was struggling at the time, and after several poor results, he had to make way for Fernando Alonso after just one season.
Magnussen stressed that Bearman's debut will be easier, than his own debut in 2014. "When I got to Formula One, it was difficult with expectations and come into a top team that’s not delivering. The expectations are so big, they want you to go and win the championship. Coming into a small team, it’s a lot easier. It would’ve been easier for me."
I'd prefer to see Magnussen than Ocon next season. Magnussen less toxic than Ocon. He's a team player, unlike Ocon.
Right so Kev made it all about him. :) I think Magnussen might be in for an awakening if Bearman shows himself fitting of the hype around him coming into F1. Bearmen could very well be showing Haas the way. 2025 is shaping up nicely.