Haas confirm Ferrari Academy prospect for FP1 rookie runs

Haas has announced Ferrari Academy driver Oliver Bearman will take part in its two rookie FP1 outings this season.

Each F1 team is mandated to run a rookie - classified as any driver with two or fewer race starts in the sport - in two practice sessions across the season.

American-owned Haas will place Bearman, who sits sixth in the Drivers' standings in his rookie F2 campaign, in the VF-23 in first practice for the Mexican and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix.

The 18-year-old has impressed for Prema this season having picked up four wins, including a Sprint-Feature double in Azerbaijan and follows in the footsteps of Charles Leclerc, Mick Schumacher, Robert Shwartzman and Antonio Giovinazzi in making the most of Haas' relationship with Ferrari to make his F1 session bow.

“We’re very happy to offer Oliver these outings in Mexico and Abu Dhabi,” said Haas Team Principal Guenther Steiner.

“He’s had a stellar rookie season in Formula 2, four wins is testament to that, and as part of the Ferrari Driver Academy – we know his background preparation coming into these weekends will be first-rate. We look forward to welcoming Oliver into the team and have him drive the VF-23.”

Support the team

“I am so happy to be joining Haas F1 Team driving in Mexico and Abu Dhabi,” added Bearman.

“Getting to Formula 1 has been my dream since I was go-karting so to be driving a car for the first time this year is really special.

"I’m grateful to the team, and of course Ferrari, for allowing me this chance.

"I’m working hard to make sure I’m ready to support the team as best I can on both occasions.”