Formula 1 rookie Oliver Bearman has experienced a remarkable increase in confidence since Haas introduced a new upgrade package at the British Grand Prix in July. The modifications—featuring a revised floor and updated sidepod inlets—immediately improved the car’s performance, helping Bearman secure his best qualifying position of the year in eighth place.

Despite finishing 11th on race day due to a 10-place grid penalty for ignoring red flags during practice, Bearman carried his newfound momentum into the next race. In Belgium, he ended an eight-race points drought by finishing seventh in the sprint race, matching his starting position. Mechanical problems and strategy issues prevented further points in the grand prix, where he again finished 11th.

Achieving Progress Despite Challenges in Mid-Season Races

At the Hungarian Grand Prix, Bearman continued to show his growth by outqualifying his experienced teammate, Esteban Ocon, before a mechanical failure prematurely ended his race. This progress is a noticeable turnaround from his early struggles, where he ranked lowest among drivers who have competed since the Australian season opener.

Bearman Reflects on Renewed Confidence and Future Potential

Bearman openly acknowledges that the Silverstone upgrades unlocked a level of confidence he had not felt before in the season.

“I haven’t found my confidence until we brought the Silverstone upgrade to the car,”

he said.

“Since then, I’ve had a really good feeling, and I’ve been able to replicate that feeling – and that’s crazy.”

“You can’t describe it, but you chase it, you chase it, you chase it and when you can have it, it’s very special,”

he added.

When asked if the upgrade marked a true turning point for his season, Bearman expressed optimism about the remainder of 2025.

“It’s a car that I feel fully comfortable in,”

he stated.

“Of course, I tried to feel as comfortable as possible in the previous car, but it’s difficult when the balance is tough. Now we’ve managed to replicate that and from now, I think we can do a lot with this car.”

Aspiring for Continued Improvement in a Tight Midfield Battle

Bearman, currently holding eight points and placed below teammate Ocon, who has 27, aims to build on recent results to help Haas improve its standing amid fierce competition in the midfield.

“I hope we can replicate the feeling that I’ve had in the previous two races,”

he said.

“In both qualifying and in the race, there’s been a few shortcomings from both sides: Silverstone I had a penalty, Spa we simply missed out on opportunities.”

“But clearly, the car has pace, so there is a lot of potential there. Step by step, we’re going to improve and get better,”

Bearman added.

“I hope we can keep up this level of performance, and then I think we can score some good points going into the second half of the season.”

Looking Ahead: Hopeful Outlook for the Rest of 2025

With ten race weekends still remaining, Bearman and Haas are focused on maintaining the momentum built after a difficult start to the year. The upgrades and the rookie’s growing experience are key factors that could help the team close the gap to rivals and secure more points as the competition intensifies.

Bearman’s increased confidence and the car’s improved balance offer a promising platform for the remainder of the season, which will be crucial in the battle for position within the strongly contested midfield.