Haas’ Bearman explains failed driving test

Dominika Jordan
Feb 18, 2025, 12:39 PM ET

Haas driver Oliver Bearman explains initial driving test failure.

Oliver Bearman, the 19-year-old Haas driver, recently opened up about his driving test experience in 2022, revealing why he needed two attempts to secure his driving license.

As Bearman embarks on his first full season in Formula 1, he joins a cadre of young talent in the paddock, including 18-year-old Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

In a press conference ahead of F1's 75th anniversary launch event, Bearman candidly shared the surprising reason behind his initial driving test failure. "I missed a stop sign," Bearman admitted. "I didn't blow it. I slowed down; I was crawling, but you're meant to stop."

Bearman humorously noted the differences between road driving tests and racing on track. "We don't have those [stop signs] on race tracks. Typical me, typical racing driver, I thought I could pass my test without having lessons so that's probably where I went wrong. After that I took a few lessons."

The young British driver has quickly made a name for himself in F1. Last season, Bearman served as a reserve driver for Ferrari, making his debut as the Italian team's youngest ever rookie at 18 years and 305 days. He stepped in for Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Grand Prix, securing an impressive seventh-place finish.

Bearman’s versatility was further proven as he filled in twice for Haas, finishing 10th in Baku and 12th in Sao Paulo.

With F1 preseason testing set to commence in Bahrain from February 26-28, all eyes will be on Bearman and his peers as they prepare for the season opener at the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 14-16.