Haas Team Principal Ayao Komatsu has issued high praise for Oliver Bearman, describing him as being “ready to be a team leader,” despite his extension with the team not yet formalised.
The Briton has enjoyed another campaign in which he has been able to display his burgeoning and considerable talents with the Banbury-based squad.
Bearman currently sits 13th in the Drivers’ standings with 23 points, 16 more than teammate Esteban Ocon, who will depart the team at the end of the season.
The Frenchman will be replaced by Bearman’s fellow Ferrari Academy alumni, Rafael Camara, the Formula 2 title-leader signing on a “multi-year” deal.
Speaking to media, including Motorsport Week, upon the Brazilian’s confirmation as a Haas driver last week, Komatsu was asked about whether Bearman is officially confirmed to be Camara’s teammate.
“I cannot go into certain contractual details, but for me, of course, I’d like to continue with Ollie,” the Japanese replied.
“You know, he’s an incredible talent and he’s shown amazing growth.
“And then this year, he’s shown that, you know, he’s ready to be a team leader.”
Komatsu continued: “And then you also have him resting in Singapore, which was very, very impressive. So, but it’s just a matter of timing. It’s just a matter of finalising certain details.
“But yes, you know, it is our intention to continue with Ollie, but the formal announcement will come in due course.”
Bearman heads to Austin this weekend for the United States Grand Prix, the first of a double-header with the Mexico City GP a week later.
The form book suggests all good things for the 21-year-old, having finished ninth at the Circuit of the Americas last year, which he followed-up with a career-best fourth place in Mexico, after an impressive dice for positon with Max Verstappen.
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