Oliver Bearman reflects on Jeddah debut ahead of Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

One year after his surprise Ferrari debut, Oliver Bearman returns to Jeddah with Haas and high expectations.

Oliver Bearman of Great Britain and Haas F1 takes part in an interview during the preview events ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on April 17, 2025, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Photo by Peter Fox/LAT Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Oliver Bearman has fond memories of his Formula One debut at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, and as the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix returns this weekend, the young British driver is eager to revisit the place where his journey into the F1 spotlight truly began. His Jeddah debut was more than just a race—it marked a turning point in his career, propelling him into the public eye and earning him a permanent place on the F1 grid.

Now driving for Haas in his rookie season, Bearman returns to the Saudi Arabian street circuit with confidence and a sense of nostalgia. The memories of his sudden and impressive performance last season with Ferrari still linger, and for Bearman, this weekend feels like coming full circle.

The start of a dream

The 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was a whirlwind moment for Bearman. He was called up at the very last minute to replace Carlos Sainz, who was sidelined due to appendicitis. With only one practice session under his belt, Bearman handled the pressure with remarkable poise. He not only completed the race but finished in an outstanding seventh place—an incredible result for someone with no prior F1 race experience.

That performance earned him two significant titles in the F1 record books: Ferrari’s youngest ever driver at just 18 years old and the youngest Briton to ever start an F1 race. For a driver who had been dreaming of Formula One since childhood, it was a fairy tale beginning.

“That was a crazy weekend,” Bearman recalled during Thursday’s media session in Jeddah. “To come back one year on is a very special feeling. I’ve always loved driving this track. I’ve always had decent performances here.”

A new chapter with Haas

Bearman's Jeddah debut didn’t just make headlines—it opened doors. His stellar drive in 2024 fast-tracked his full-time seat in Formula One. This season, Bearman signed with Haas, Ferrari’s engine customer, and has been paired with Esteban Ocon as his teammate.

“I’m quite happy with how it’s going,” Bearman said. “We’ve had two races with both cars in the points, which is really, really good.”

Despite the challenges of adapting to a new team and the grueling pace of the F1 calendar, Bearman is settling in well. After four races, he has already scored six points and currently sits 13th in the drivers' standings, a solid achievement in a midfield car.

Life in the spotlight

Being thrust into the Formula One spotlight hasn’t come without its share of changes. For Bearman, the fame, attention, and expectations are all part of a new reality.

“Stepping into F1, you have more fans and people knowing you—that can be good and bad, I guess,” he said with a smile. “But it’s what I’ve been dreaming of since I was young, so I’m very happy being here.”

That happiness is evident in his approach. Calm, focused, and mature beyond his years, Bearman is not letting the pressure affect his performance. If anything, he’s thriving under it.

A love for Jeddah

It’s no surprise that Bearman holds a special place in his heart for the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Fast, narrow, and lined with walls, the high-speed street track is one of the most challenging on the calendar. But Bearman seems to thrive under those conditions.

“This track will always be quite special to me,” he said. “It gave me the chance to show what I can do. That opportunity changed everything.”

Bearman’s appreciation for Jeddah isn’t just sentimental. The layout suits his driving style, allowing him to show off his natural talent and ability to adapt quickly.

Adapting to the F1 lifestyle

Formula One’s relentless schedule can be tough, especially for a rookie. With three consecutive race weekends leading up to Jeddah, Bearman is looking forward to a brief break to recharge.

“The travel is long. If all the tracks could be in Europe, that would be great!” he joked. “It feels tough now to do all that travel, but the more races I do, the more I’m enjoying it. When the results are coming, I am happy to keep going.”

Despite the jet lag and constant movement, Bearman remains committed to making the most of every race weekend. His growing experience is giving him greater confidence, and with each race, his presence on the grid becomes more assured.

A bright future ahead

Oliver Bearman’s return to Jeddah is more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane—it’s a signal of how far he’s come and where he could go. His Jeddah debut was a springboard, but it’s what he’s done since that proves his place in the sport is well deserved.

With six points already on the board, Bearman has made a strong case for himself in his rookie campaign. He may not be fighting for podiums just yet, but the talent is unmistakable. Teams and fans alike are beginning to see Bearman not just as a one-time substitute, but as a genuine future contender.

As the lights go out in Jeddah this weekend, all eyes will again be on the driver who turned heads here just a year ago. With a full season now ahead of him, Bearman has the tools, the team, and the track to make his mark once again.

And if his past performance is anything to go by, this won’t be the last time Jeddah plays a starring role in his Formula One story.