In the recent growth of talk regarding the many empty seats for 2025, it seems the Haas seat has become the topic of recent conversations.
Following the recent news of Nico Hulkenburg’s move to Sauber/Audi, the attention has drifted to the second seat. Haas and Ferrari’s reserve driver, Ollie Bearman, being regarded as the top choice.
Assumptions have been made that the 19-year-old will fill the gap left by Hulkenburg following his impressive debut in Jeddah. He will take part in six FP1 sessions this season with the American team. Three times the required amount.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has made it clear that the FP session holds more weight than Bearman’s current F2 campaign on his chance of the seat. Although he is still expected to do well.
When asked about the prospect of the 2025 seat, Bearman made it clear, “Just because there is a seat doesn’t mean I’m entitled to it.”
He admitted he needs to ‘earn’ the seat through “good performances in F2, but even more so the 6 FP’s.” echoing the sentiments of Komatsu.
He said candidly that he ‘just drives’. He believes he proved himself from his performance in Jeddah. Now focusing on building up and being able to push the car.
He is not the only focus for Haas
Kevin Magnussen’s future has been under scrutiny. His contract also expires in 2025 and there is discussion over replacements.
The top contenders for the seat that are currently on the F1 grid are Logan Sargaent and Zhou Guanyu.
Zhou Guanyu is a significant prospect for any team in F1. He is a strong candidate from a marketability perspective, while being a consistent driver. He is still young and yet has a few seasons of F1 under him. His management is rumoured to be presenting his case to Haas.
Logan Sargaent’s name has recently appeared in connection to the American team. Especially as his contract with Williams comes to an end, without any sign of renewal. He has the American ties that may have Haas inclined to sign him.
However, this is only his second season of F1 and with Bearman seeming more likely, it would be a risk to have two unexperienced drivers.
Both Esteban Ocon and Valtteri Bottas have both been rumoured to be in talks with Haas, though they also have been linked with other teams.
A handful of F2 drivers have also been noted in contention. The likes of Jack Doohan, Zak O’sullivan and Zane Maloney. All looking for an F1 seat. Although, after the troubles Haas faced with Mazepin and Schumacher, there are doubts they would rush to sign two rookies.
With the line-up still being considered, there are no guarantees for the 2025 Haas seat.
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